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Active and Passive Touch: A Research Methodology Project

We describe a perceptual experiment that we have successfully used in Research Methods classes. Students attempt to identify a series of simple cookie cutter shapes using only the fingers and hands (haptic perception). Students read archival studies that have used this procedure, identify confounds, generate and test alternative hypotheses, and present the results. Students described the project as quite enjoyable. They also showed a deeper understanding of research design and were able to present their data clearly. This exercise is an effective project for exploring and practicing critical analysis of existing research, experimental design, and data analysis, as well as data and theory presentation.