The sound of mechanized movements fills the library. From the Information Technology room in the back, a small robotic dog with four wheels rolls out, followed closely by Digital Learning Specialist Mrs. Quesnell. As she barks a command, the dog moves in accordance. 

With a retail cost of $250, Chip, the robotic dog, works through sensors located throughout its body. It has a rechargeable battery and can even chase its own special ball.

In addition, Chip’s sensors act like his ears. Whenever it hears its name, followed by a command, it responds, similar to Siri on the iPhone or Alexa from Amazon.

Users can also feed Chip through an app created by WowWee, a company that “develops, markets and distributes robotic toys,” according to its website. 

According to Mrs. Quesnell, there is also an important technological-educational opportunity presented with this product. 

“People think it’s silly seeing me with Chip, but there is more to it,” said Ms. Quesnell. “It gives students opportunities to learn about sensors and then how those sensors work along with the rest of the technology.”

Chip provides students with not only the new technological aspect of learning but something that provides them with something applicable to their everyday lives.

As the period ends, Chip rolls back into The Information Technology room. It’s time for Chip to sit, stay…roll over? Not so much.