Date: Wednesday, July 23, 2025 - Wednesday, July 23, 2025
Location:
Time: 12:00pm Eastern
Title: Creating Mobility Solutions for Children: Combining Industrial Design, Occupational Therapy, and Physical Therapy Skillsets to Achieve Better Outcomes
Speakers: Maya Freedman,Thomas Jefferson University; Emily Betchyk, Thomas Jefferson University; Morganne Wandall, Thomas Jefferson University;
Team Members: Eric Schneider, Thomas Jefferson University; Muth Stephanie, Thomas Jefferson University; Kimberly Mollo, Thomas Jefferson University; Tod Corlett, Thomas Jefferson University
Abstract:
Purpose: This project united industrial design, occupational therapy, and physical therapy students/faculty to address mobility challenges in children with disabilities.
Rationale: Prior single day interdisciplinary collaboration using modified Power Wheels cars succeeded but lacked in-depth iteration and team reflection. This newer collaboration over a multi-week timeframe enhanced learning, interdisciplinary discussion, creativity, and inclusivity for participants. Adapting 12-volt Bumper Cars yielded more compact and maneuverable solutions, making them more suitable for indoor use. New designs were also more portable, allowing for wider utility for caregivers.
Goal: The revised program fostered collaboration between design and rehabilitation students/faculty, leading to repeatable solutions for children to enhance community mobility. This can be a template for future iterations and collaborations between design and rehabilitation students/faculty.
Learning Outcomes:
At the end of session, attendees will be able to:
1. Learn how to effectively structure and manage an interdisciplinary project to develop and build assistive solutions by adapting existing products, technologies, and materials.
2. Learn about evaluation and validation methods for iterative development of assistive devices in a short term, intensive project.
Primary topic area: PLY: Play and Recreation in Assistive Technology
Secondary topic area:
Registration will open on Thursday, June 26, 2025.
Presenter Bio:
Completion of the post-event survey and quiz earns 0.1 IACET CEUs.
RESNA has been approved as an Authorized Provider by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET), 21670 Ridgetop Circle, Suite 170, Sterling, VA 20166: (703) 506-3275