Manal Helal

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About

Manal Helal is a pioneering researcher at the intersection of artificial intelligence and education, with a primary focus on human-robot interaction and the pedagogical deployment of Large Language Models (LLMs). Her work critically examines how young learners engage with AI-powered tutors, particularly in mathematics education. In her landmark 2024 study, "When the Robotic Maths Tutor is Wrong - Can Children Identify Mistakes Generated by ChatGPT?", Helal investigates the cognitive and trust dynamics between primary school students and ChatGPT-driven robots. This research, already garnering 5 citations shortly after publication, reveals how children perceive and respond to errors made by AI tutors—a vital contribution as LLMs become ubiquitous in classrooms. Helal’s work stands out for its timely exploration of AI literacy and critical thinking in early education, offering practical insights for designing more transparent and effective educational technologies. By bridging robotics, cognitive science, and educational psychology, she is shaping how future generations learn alongside intelligent machines, ensuring that AI serves as a reliable partner rather than an unquestioned authority.