Design Considerations for Haptic-Enabled Virtual Reality Simulation for Interactive Learning of Nanoscale Science in Schools

Mary Webb*, Megan Tracey, William Harwin, Ozan Tokatli, Faustina Hwang, Ros Johnson, Natasha Barrett, Chris Jones

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference paperpeer-review

Abstract

This paper reports on a study which investigated whether the addition of haptics (virtual touch) to a 3D virtual reality (VR) simulation promotes understanding of key nanoscale concepts in membrane systems for students aged 12 to 13. We developed a virtual model of a section of the cell membrane and a haptic enabled interface that enables students to interact with the model and to manipulate objects in the model. Students, in two schools in England, worked collaboratively in pairs on activities designed to develop their understanding of key concepts of cell membrane function. Results of pre-and post-tests of conceptual knowledge and understanding showed significant knowledge gains but there were no significant differences between the haptic and non-haptic condition. However, findings from observation of the activities and student interviews revealed that students were very positive about using the system and believed that being able to feel structures and manipulate objects within the model assisted their learning. We examine some of the design challenges and issues affecting the perception of haptic feedback.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationImmersive Learning Research Network - 5th International Conference, iLRN 2019, Proceedings
EditorsDennis Beck, Anasol Peña-Rios, Todd Ogle, Daphne Economou, Markos Mentzelopoulos, Leonel Morgado, Christian Eckhardt, Johanna Pirker, Christian Gütl, Roxane Koitz-Hristov, Jonathon Richter, Michael Gardner
PublisherSpringer Verlag
Pages56-67
Number of pages12
ISBN (Print)9783030230883
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2019
Event5th International Conference of the Immersive Learning Network, iLRN 2019 - London, United Kingdom
Duration: 23 Jun 201927 Jun 2019

Publication series

NameCommunications in Computer and Information Science
Volume1044
ISSN (Print)1865-0929
ISSN (Electronic)1865-0937

Conference

Conference5th International Conference of the Immersive Learning Network, iLRN 2019
Country/TerritoryUnited Kingdom
CityLondon
Period23/06/201927/06/2019

Keywords

  • Cell biology
  • Haptics
  • Science learning
  • Virtual reality

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