WIP: Kaden's Car: An Interdisciplinary Project for Technology and Occupational Therapy Students

This innovative practice WIP paper describes an interdisciplinary collaboration of computer science, engineering technology, and occupational therapy faculty and students focused on improving the lives of children with disabilities. In the spring of 2023, an occupational therapy student was approached by a friend of a young boy who had lost both of his legs due to infection to see if she knew of anyone who could adapt his drivable car to hand controls. A group of students from the Innovators and Makers Club and occupational therapy program met together to adapt the car. Funded by monies from the College of Innovation and Technology, the car was adapted with hand controls and the young boy was able to have his car for the summer. The authors completed virtual interviews with the students involved in the process in Fall 2023. The students shared their views on this uncommon learning exercise and how they thought the experience may enhance their careers. The information provided by the initial group of students allowed the car to be brought back to campus in Winter 2024 and students from Digital Manufacturing Technology & Automation and Occupational Therapy are working together in combined class times to further adapt the car. The collaboration between two distinct disciplines, DMT (Digital, Manufacturing, and Automation) and OT (Occupational Therapy), to enhance the design and functionality of a car represents a groundbreaking approach to problem-solving and innovation. By merging their diverse expertise, these classes are able to tackle challenges from multiple angles, incorporating both technical and human-centric perspectives. This interdisciplinary collaboration fosters creativity and encourages outside-the-box thinking, leading to more comprehensive solutions that address not only the technical aspects of car design but also considerations of usability, accessibility, and user experience. By bridging the gap between engineering technology and healthcare, this innovative partner-ship demonstrates the power of interdisciplinary collaboration in driving forward progress and creating products that better serve the needs of diverse populations. In concert, the professional development component of these activities helps validate several of the concepts presented in both courses. Just as importantly, employers are seeking candidates who possess these real world experiences and working knowledge.