The Sense of Touch in Virtual Worlds: Haptic Technology

Stanford University is working on the use of haptic technology, for virtual worlds. As we delve farther into virtual spaces, the sense of touch is something missing. Video games that "rumble" offer a great example of how the sense of touch in the virtual is powerful. Using this in Second Life for exploration and interaction would be quite interesting!

Now, sense of smell in the virtual? They kind of manage it on Soarin' Over California at California Adventure. Long way to go though.

This video speaks a little about haptic technologies used in Second Life. How could we use this with distance learners? We can already feel butterflies in our stomach by watching movies and playing video games or reading exciting books (and riding with some family members who drive...interesting). What about constructionism principles designed into virtual spaces, learning experiences? Cool, man!