Undergraduate design projects to aid persons with disabilities: reflections

Area of Science:

• Engineering Education
• Assistive Technology (AT)
• Human-Computer Interaction

Background:

• The University of Wyoming's College of Engineering received a five-year grant from the National Science Foundation in 2002.
• The grant aimed to integrate senior capstone design projects with the needs of the assistive technology (AT) community.
• This initiative fostered a unique collaboration between students and individuals requiring custom AT devices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the development and organization of a five-year program linking engineering design projects with assistive technology needs.
• To share practical lessons learned regarding program implementation and management.
• To discuss the benefits and challenges encountered during the program.

Main Methods:

• Linking senior capstone design projects with specific requirements from the assistive technology community.
• Documenting program development, organization, and management strategies.
• Analyzing the outcomes, benefits, and pitfalls of the collaborative program.

Main Results:

• The collaboration proved highly beneficial for senior design students, enhancing their practical skills.
• Individuals with disabilities received one-of-a-kind assistive technology devices tailored to their unique needs.
• The program generated valuable lessons for future endeavors in AT development and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Conclusions:

• The program's success and rich benefits warrant an application for a second five-year funding increment.
• The practical implementation and management insights gained are valuable for others considering similar initiatives.
• Continued collaboration between engineering education and the AT community offers significant advantages for both students and end-users.