This study was an investigation of the use of a NAO humanoid robot as an effective tool for engaging readers in an afterschool program as well as to find if increasing engagement using a humanoid robot would affect students' reading comprehension when compared to traditional forms of instruction. The targeted population of this study was economically disadvantaged students from underrepresented groups in an afterschool literacy program setting. The research design was an experimental case study using a cross-sectional population with a mixed methods approach. Quantitative methods were used to collect known information (comprehension and engagement levels). Qualitative methods allowed for explanations of why and how phenomena occur and the range of their effects. At the time of this study, a limited body of research existed related to humanoid robots and engagement. Published research did not exist related to the topic of investigating humanoid robots and engagement within afterschool literacy programs. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]