Web-based touch display for accessible science education

Inaccessibility of instructional materials, media, and technologies used in science, engineering, and mathematics education severely restricts the ability of students with little or no sight to excel in these disciplines, Curricular barriers deny the world access to this pool of potential talent, and limit individuals' freedom to pursue technical careers. Immersion has developed a low-cost force-feedback computer mouse. This haptic display technology promises fundamental improvements in accessibility at mass-market prices (sub-$100). This paper presents the results of an investigation into the potential benefits of incorporating haptic feedback into software intended for college and high school physics curricula.