VR-based dynamics learning system using haptic device and its evaluation

The role of computer tools and facilities become quite important to support educational activity in the school. In this view, many e-learning software are investigated, such as CAI (computer assisted instruction), WBT (Web based training), ILE (interactive learning environment), micro-world, CSCL (computer supported collaborative learning) (Galcev et al., 2001) and so on conventionally. On the other hand, VR (virtual reality) technology is focused as a new multimedia paradigm and is introduced into a lot of application software. And the costs of those VR facilities are reduced recently. For instance, a haptic device which offers the user such as force feedback would be powerful support tool for education at school and gives the student a direct feeling and more real feeling. In this paper, the new e-learning framework which is combined micro-world style ILE and VR concept is proposed. Also the prototype system which treats physical knowledge as the learning domain and introduces the PHANToM (personal haptic interface mechanism) as a haptic device is described.