Bot: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term 'bot' is short for 'robot,' which comes from the Czech word 'robota' meaning forced labor.
• The use of the word in the context of software emerged in the 1990s as technology advanced.
• Early examples of bots were created for chatrooms and online games, making interactions more engaging.

Technology

• Bots can operate on various platforms, including messaging apps, websites, and social networks.
• Chatbots have become popular in customer service, providing 24/7 assistance without human intervention.
• Advanced AI bots utilize machine learning to improve their responses and better understand user requests.

Pop Culture

• Bots are often depicted in movies and TV shows as characters with artificial intelligence, like R2-D2 in 'Star Wars.'
• The internet meme culture has created playful representations of bots, showcasing their quirky and sometimes humorous behavior.
• In gaming, bots are frequently used as opponents or allies, influencing gameplay strategies for human players.

Psychology

• Interactions with bots can impact user emotions, as people may feel comforted or frustrated depending on the bot's responses.
• Studies show that users often attribute human-like qualities to bots, leading to emotional attachments in some cases.
• The acceptance of bots in everyday tasks is tied to the evolving relationship between humans and technology, reflecting adaptability.

Education

• Educational bots are being used in classrooms to assist students with learning, providing instant answers and resources.
• Some platforms employ bots to help guide learners through various topics, enhancing accessibility and personalized study plans.
• As technology evolves, digital literacy becomes essential, and understanding how bots function is a key learning objective.