Courses
Social Robotics for Care and Health
Certificate
Course Details
| Course Code | SG_SOCRO_S08 |
|---|---|
| Level | 8 |
| Duration | 1 semester |
| Credits | 5 |
| Method of Delivery | Online |
| Campus Locations | Sligo |
| Mode of Delivery | Part Time |
Course Overview
This programme aims to introduce learners to the emerging world of social robots and their growing use in care, health, education and community settings. It will help learners understand what social robots are, how they work, and why they may be significant for the future of human-centred services.
Through accessible online learning, the programme supports learners to explore the opportunities and challenges social robots present, including practical use, ethical questions, regulation and wider social impact. It is designed to build confidence, critical understanding and AI literacy for those who may encounter these technologies in their work or professional interests.
The programme is suitable for practitioners, graduates, policy actors and lifelong learners who want to engage in an informed way with one of the most important developing areas at the intersection of technology, society and care.
Course Details
Year 1
| Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Social Robotics for Care and HealthThis module aims to introduce learners to the emerging world of social robots and their growing use in care, health, education and community settings. It will help learners understand what social robots are, how they work, and why they may be significant for the future of human-centred services. The module supports learners to explore the opportunities and challenges social robots present, including practical use, ethical questions, regulation and wider social impact. It is designed to build confidence, critical understanding and AI literacy for those who may encounter these technologies in their work or professional interests. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the nature, characteristics, core technological principles and typologies of social robots. |
05 | Mandatory |
Recommended Study Hours per week
The programme consists of weekly 4 hours online MOOC (Massive open online course) learner activities and an additional 35 hours across the full semester for each of the two assessment activities.
Examination and Assessment
The assessment strategy combines low- or no-stakes online learning activities with two formal assessment tasks. The diverse online activities are designed to encourage engagement, reflection and consolidation of key module concepts. While these activities are not graded, learners may be required to complete them successfully before progressing to the next item, unit or section. Formal assessment comprises two tasks: a reflective log and a work- or domestic-based intervention scenario.
Download a prospectus
Entry Requirements
There are no mandatory entry requirements for this Special Purpose Award. Learners are advised that the module is pitched at NFQ Level 8, and will benefit most from those who hold:
a qualification at NFQ Level 7 or equivalent (or be currently studying at that level in another HEI), or
relevant professional experience in a care, health, education or related service setting
Learners should have access to a reliable broadband internet connection and be comfortable engaging with online learning environments. No prior technical knowledge of robotics or artificial intelligence is required.
Fees
This course is funded by the Micro-credential Learner Fee Subsidy 2026 programme and fees are subsidised at 80% for all eligible learner categories. Eligible learners can expect to pay €105 for this programme as part of this initiative.
Further information on feesFurther Information
Start Date
September 2026
Contact Information
Springboard Office (Sligo campus)
