This study explores the use of an upper-limb wearable exoskeleton for teaching violin technique to novices through haptic-assisted training. The educational potential of this technology was evaluated using a framework that integrated quantitative kinematic metrics and qualitative assessments, comparing a group receiving haptic feedback (N = 12) with a control group that did not (N = 12) in a mixed between-within-subjects design. Results from a double-blind expert panel indicated that participants trained with the exoskeleton outperformed the control group during recall measurements. In addition, spatial and spatiotemporal - but not temporal - kinematic metrics related to bowing technique improved significantly during training, with gains persisting during recall, and these outcomes were supported by self-reported user assessments. However, subtle features of the technology also became apparent, including interference with natural shoulder movements, exposing areas for refinement. In conclusion, this study suggests that haptic-assisted training with an exoskeleton can enhance specific motor skills in violin playing, highlighting promising directions for future research in educational technology and providing a quantitative framework for assessing motor skill development in haptic-assisted learning, which can further support the development and validation of educational technologies. However, given the absence of long-term retention measurements and the limited generalizability associated with the small sample size, the findings of this pilot study should be interpreted with caution.
Campo et al. (Wed,) studied this question.