Enhancing public involvement in assistive technology design research.

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Engineering
• Assistive Technology Research
• Human-Computer Interaction

Background:

• Public involvement in research is increasingly encouraged but its impact on assistive technology (AT) design requires further appraisal.
• Guidance exists for good practice in public involvement, yet detailed accounts of its application and outcomes in AT research are limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the implementation of public involvement guidance in AT research.
• To assess the impact of public involvement on research teams, participants, and the design of devices and trials.
• To contribute a detailed case study to the evidence base on public involvement in AT design.

Main Methods:

• A case study approach was used, focusing on the development of a functional electrical stimulation device.
• Critical reflection and within-project evaluation methods were employed.
• Individual and group interviews were conducted with lay members of a user advisory group and research team members.

Main Results:

• Research team members reported positive impacts on device and study designs due to public involvement.
• Public participants experienced enhanced confidence, skills, self-esteem, and satisfaction, and contributed to improving care.
• A challenge was identified in engaging the public in the dissemination phase after study completion.

Conclusions:

• Public involvement significantly enhanced the design of an assistive technology, making it more fit for purpose.
• Research team members developed more positive attitudes towards public involvement after observing its potential firsthand.
• This case study provides a valuable account of public involvement in AT design, strengthening the limited evidence base and underscoring the need for active engagement in rehabilitation research.