AlloHaptic: Robot-Mediated Haptic Collaboration for Learning Linear Functions*

Collaborative learning appears in a joint intellectual efforts of individuals to understand an object of knowledge collectively. In their search for understanding the problems, meanings, and solutions, learners employ different multi-modal strategies. In this work, we explore the role of force feedback in learners interaction with tangible hand-held robots. We designed a collaborative learning environment to provide embodied intuitions on linear mathematical functions combined with graphical representations and ran a first study involving 24 participants. Our analysis shows a positive learning gain for our learning activity. Moreover, to explore the link between different types of force feedback and learners’ collaboration, we designed a focus group study with 12 participants. Our results suggest that the haptic communication channel affects the collaboration dynamic differently according to the nature of the learning task. We finish by proposing design insights for future exploration of haptic in collaborative learning.