On-Demand Webinar: Creating Mobility Solutions for Children: Combining Industrial Design, Occupational Therapy, and Physical Therapy Skillsets to Achieve Better Outcomes

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

WEBINAR ABSTRACT:

• Purpose: This interdisciplinary collaboration brought together students and faculty from industrial design, occupational therapy, and physical therapy to address the seating and mobility needs of children with mobility impairments. The goal was to enhance usability and access to modified ride-on bumper cars through thoughtful, user-centered adaptations.
• Rationale: Unlike prior single-day build events using modified Power Wheels vehicles—which achieved functional outcomes but limited iteration and team reflection—this multi-week project allowed for deeper collaboration, creative problem-solving, and inclusive design practices. The use of 12-volt bumper cars offered a more compact, maneuverable platform better suited for indoor environments, expanding their potential applications.
• Goal: This revised program successfully fostered sustained collaboration between design and rehabilitation disciplines, resulting in repeatable, adaptive mobility solutions that support children's participation and community engagement. The model offers a valuable template for future educational partnerships and inclusive design initiatives.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: 

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.

CEUs/CONTACT HOURS: Completion of this webinar and all components earns 0.1 IACET CEUs