Developing a teaching chatbot for learning tools and equipment in technology classrooms

Abstract

Using and applying tools and equipment for designing and building projects has always been indispensable in living technology classrooms. However, students must be aware of their proper use to avoid mistakes and safety concerns. In recent years, chatbots have been widely used in various fields, offering instant, interactive responses, and their application in educational contexts has also increased rapidly. Therefore, this study developed a chatbot for LINE, a popular messaging app in Asia, for teaching standard hand tools and equipment in living technology classrooms at secondary schools. This chatbot covered (1) measuring tools, (2) hand tools, (3) power tools and equipment, and others. A total of 49 tools and pieces of equipment were included. The instructional content for each consisted of (1) instructions, (2) operating procedures and skills, and (3) troubleshooting and maintenance. The user interface adopted point-and-click forms and graphical menus to quickly guide users searching for specific information. In addition, users can enter relevant keywords and the chatbot will answer the corresponding content. The chatbot is expected to solve student questions more efficiently and assist teachers, improving the effectiveness and convenience of these hands-on lessons.