Tangible User Interfaces For Multisensory Storytelling At School: A Study Of Acceptability

Abstract

Interest in Tangible User Interfaces (TUIs) is quickly increasing, accompanied
by interest in its impact in both formal and informal learning environments.
Given its strong connection with the physical world, the TUIs are
natural candidates to lead a revamping of the classical psycho-pedagogical
practices. These traditional approaches could benefit from the expanded
learning opportunities made possible through digital tool. In addition, the
TUIs enable to explore a multisensorial approach, including smell that has
enormous potential in learning.
This paper presents an application of a prototype that exploits the RFID
technology, named Multi Activity Board (MAB), using a TUI approach. In
particular, the study focuses on the acceptability of the mode of interaction.
A storytelling approach was applied with three different interactions: traditional
book, touchscreen with a tablet and multisensory approach with the
MAB. Study participants comprise 59 children, all in the second grade of primary
schools. The results show a high acceptability for the TUI tool (61%),
greater than the tablet (25,4%) and book interaction (8,5%).