Date: Wednesday, July 23, 2025
Time: 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Eastern
Location: Zoom via RESNA Learn
Title: Creating Mobility Solutions for Children: Combining Industrial Design, Occupational Therapy, and Physical Therapy Skillsets to Achieve Better Outcomes
Speaker: 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:
- Learn how to effectively structure and manage an interdisciplinary project to develop and build assistive solutions by adapting existing products, technologies, and materials.
- Learn about evaluation and validation methods for iterative development of assistive devices in a short term, intensive project.
Pricing: Free for RESNA members; $45 for non-members
Completion of this webinar and all required components earns 0.1 IACET CEUs.
Click "Register' in the upper right corner to register today.