Research of haptic techniques for computer-based education

Haptics has the potential to be a powerful tool in computer-based education (CBE). More and more studies prove that it can be an effective additive for face-to-face education, but most of the traditional CBE systems are based on visualization techniques to accomplish education task. This paper describes a multi-sensory virtual reality application for students' education. The application allows users to learn about the theories and information appeared in textbooks through the exploration in a virtual environment with haptics feedback. Evaluation from school teachers and students shows that the haptics enabling virtual reality experience makes education more interesting and interactive, and helps students understand study contents in classroom.