Robot tutors could bridge the digital divide for older adults

NCT ID NCT07707466

Ongoing Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Northwestern University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jul 16, 2026 · Last updated Jul 17, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether a social robot can teach older Chinese immigrants how to use the MyChart health portal. Participants learn tasks like scheduling appointments and viewing test results, either with a robot or a standard video. The goal is to see if the robot improves engagement, comprehension, and confidence compared to video alone.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: robot-guided digital literacy curriculum
What this could lead to: If effective, social robots could become a scalable tool to help older adults gain digital skills, improving access to healthcare and reducing the digital divide.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage study with only 50 participants, so results may not apply broadly. The robot's novelty might boost engagement temporarily, and long-term learning gains are uncertain.

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As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

CHINESE HEALTHY ADULT

Contacts and locations

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Locations

Northwestern University

Chicago, Illinois, 60611, United States

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