TOUCH

Feeling the Untouchable: Haptic touch experiences for naturalistic learning

Professor Advaith Siddharthan's new project, "Feeling the Untouchable: Haptic touch experiences for naturalistic learning" has received a GBP 922,000 grant through round one of UKRI's highly competitive cross-council responsive mode scheme to explore how children could experience and learn about the natural world through touch. Spanning two years, this project is poised to make a significant impact on sensory learning and inclusivity within educational environments. The project is a collaboration with Imperial College London, University of Edinburgh, Learning for Sustainability Scotland and Sight Scotland.

The TOUCH project will address today's biggest sustainability challenges by bringing researchers, teachers, and students together to co-create tactile discovery experiences of the natural world. We will develop innovative teaching methods that encourage students to explore the natural world in exciting and hands-on ways, including through digital haptic interfaces.

This approach not only enhances students' observational and critical thinking skills but also integrates technology meaningfully into nature-focused lessons. Ultimately, the TOUCH project aims to inspire children to take action to protect the planet, empowering them to become informed and active citizens for a sustainable future.

Partners

• University of Edinburgh
• Imperial College London
• Learning for Sustainability Scotland
• Sight Scotland