Haptics for Inclusion Lab

The Haptics for Inclusion Lab - an exciting new undertaking by the Arizona State University Narrative and Emerging Media program - ignites imagination using haptics technology as a force for perceptual change and inclusion of the most marginalized in our society. Research has shown that haptics technology increases learning outcomes for those with disabilities as well as those who learn better with the aid of tactile and/or kinesthetic technologies (Inclusive Design Research Center). At the Haptics for Inclusion Lab, we will combine the power of haptics - testing out new haptics technologies including gloves, vests, full body suits and custom made devices - with immersive storytelling to explore the full potential of haptics technology in the creative narrative process. We will also explore the importance of less prominent sensory learning modalities and the possibility of reorienting our relationship to the world through new sensorial experiences. How are new haptic devices currently being used? How might haptics allow us to listen with our skin, see with our nervous system and understand the world with our entire physiology? And who are we able to include when we alter our orientation to our own bodies and psyches? Can we re-imagine a different kind of relationship to our bodies and our surrounding environment?

ASU's Narrative and Emerging Media Program is working with the Nonfiction Access Initiative at the International Documentary Association to engage disabled creators, with visible and invisible disabilities, as key participants of the lab. The Lab is a co-creative effort between Narrative and Emerging Media Program director Nonny de la Peña, Learning Resource Specialist Ryat Yezbick, XRts Immersive Media fellow Sultan Sharrief and features haptics artist Alexis Story Crawshaw.