Improving Perception and Understanding of Nanoscale Phenomena Using Haptics and Visual Analogy

Abstract. This paper introduces a new pedagogical tool using haptic feedback and visual analogy, to improve perception and learning of nanoscale phenomena, for people without prior knowledge of nanophysics. This tool is a haptic and virtual-reality simulator of a foremost onedimensional nanophysical phenomenon: the approach-retract cycle of an Atomic Force Microcope (AFM) probe, with a force-feedback device and two graphic representations. One representation is a virtual AFM cantilever and the other one is a virtual magnet-spring system, whose haptic behavior is analog. Preliminary results from an experiment conducted with 45 students seem to show a better efficiency with the combination of both haptic feedback and visual analogy. Key words: Haptic feedback, Visual analogy, Computer-assisted instruction, Atomic force microscopy (AFM)

• Type: Conference
• Year: 2008
• Where: HAPTICS
• Authors: Guillaume Millet, Anatole Lécuyer, Jean-Marie Burkhardt, D. Sinan Haliyo, Stephane Régnier
• Keywords: Atomic Force, Haptic Feedback, HAPTICS 2008, Virtual Reality, Visual Analogy