Training Assistive Technology in the Environment (TATE)
Funded by:
US Department of Education—National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research
Project Period:
October 1, 2009 – September 30, 2012
Project Contact:
|
Robin Harwick, M.S. |
541-346-0574 |
Project Director/Principal Investigator:
|
Laurie Ehlhardt Powell, Ph.D. |
541-346-0572 |
Co-Investigator:
|
Ann Glang, Ph.D. |
541-346-0594 |
Research Team:
|
Robin Harwick, M.S. |
541-346-0574 |
|
|
Debbie Ettel, Ph.D. |
etteld@wou.edu |
541-346-0583 |
Description:
Assistive technology for cognition (ATC) has tremendous potential to support increased independence in adults with cognitive impairments due to traumatic brain injury (TBI) by compensating for these impairments. However, the ATC literature cites lack of effective instruction as a barrier to successful, long-term use.
In this development project, we are developing, testing, and disseminating an instructional package called the Training Assistive Technology in the Environment (TATE) Systematic Instructional Package (SIP). The use of Participatory Action Research (PAR) during the project ensures that TATE SIP is informed by stakeholder input throughout the development and evaluation phases. Outcome measures will include evaluation of device use (device skill acquisition), device usability (skills used in targeted environments), functional performance (activities of daily living affected by device use), quality of life (subjective well-being) and social participation (community integration).
To ensure the TATE SIP reaches its intended audiences—survivors of TBI and the individuals who will train them to use ATC—we are working with a national group of researchers, practitioners, consumers, and advocacy organizations to support recruitment and dissemination activities.
Presentation
Project Update
February 28, 2012
We have completed pilot testing of the TATE ATC toolkit in preparation for final field testing. The Toolkit now includes video samples contrasting effective vs. ineffective training practices applied to ATC. We are also nearing completion of our single case experimental study, which has informed the overall design of the Toolkit. Finally, we recently conducted a survey of professional practices targeting the assessment and training of ATC.
October 24, 2011
Dr. Ehlhardt Powell presented preliminary findings from the TATE Project at the Oregon Speech and Hearing Association Conference in Salem, OR, on October, 15, 2011.We are continuing to recruit participants - both trainers and clients--for TATE Toolkit field testing starting January, 2012. Please contact Robin Harwick, Project Coordinator, if you are interested in participating in field testing.
August 26, 2011
The pilot TATE Assistive Technology for Cognition Toolkit includes materials to facilitate personal goal planning and device assessment-selection as well as sample training scripts and videos. The Toolkit has been extensively pilot tested with trainers of ATC and their clients. In preparation for field-testing in Year 3 of the project, we have initiated a series of single case experimental studies evaluating selected components of the Toolkit focusing on the impact of systematic training of ATC in everyday contexts. We are analyzing these data on an on-going basis to determine functional improvements/experimental changes.
We have introduced the TATE Toolkit to several research and rehabilitation groups nationwide, including our recent presentation at the Federal Interagency Conference on Traumatic Brain Injury in Washington, DC (Ehlhardt Powell & Wild, 2011). We are currently recruiting participants - both trainers and clients--for field testing in Year 3 (October, 2011- September, 2012).
April 11, 2011
During the first year of the project we conducted focus groups to inform the development of our training materials. We are currently in Year 2, and have been pilot-testing the TATE Assistive Technology for Cognition (ATC) Toolkit. The Toolkit is designed for trainers of ATC from a variety backgrounds, including caregivers, occupational therapists, speech pathologists, and job coaches. The ATC Toolkit components include evidence-based, practical materials for personal goal planning around the use of ATC, assessment tools for matching person and technology as well as training materials such as lesson plans, session scripts, and video examples of how to systematically train ATC.
We are currently revising the Toolkit in preparation for additional field-testing and will be initiating a series of single case studies to experimentally evaluate selected Toolkit components focusing on generalized use of ATC in everyday contexts. In Year 3, we will conduct feasibility testing of the Toolkit through our nationwide network of applied research partners.
Our current partners include: The Sheltercare-Uhlhorn Program, Eugene, OR; Windsor Place, Salem, OR; Bridge to Independence, Hillsboro, OR; University of Oregon Communication Disorders and Sciences Program, Eugene, OR; the Acquired Brain Injury Program at Coastline Community College, Costa Mesa, CA.
