Research Thrusts

Research Thrusts 

CDAT has identified the following three research thrust areas as initial starting points for research projects. Learn more about our core research activities.

Transitions 

• The purpose of this research thrust is to enable successful transitions between various stages of life for PWDs.
• This thrust aims to leverage extant and emerging technologies for supporting the transition to adulthood (i.e., from high school to post-secondary education and employment) among youth with disabilities.
• This research thrust can be extended to focus on other key transition periods such as early childhood to school entry, and older age and retirement. 
   

Mobility and Access

• The purpose of this research is to enhance mobility and increase access to spaces PWDs visit.
• This thrust explores the development of technological solutions that enhance mobility for PwDs and ensure that built environments are both accessible and usable for this population.
• The Mobility and Access thrust investigates how access can be improved, and how emerging technologies can be designed to address the unique needs and capabilities of PwDs.
   

Smart Spaces 

• The purpose of this research thrust is to assist with activities of daily living (ADLs) within spaces that PWDs work, learn, and live.
• This thrust conducts research on creating technology solutions designed to support independent living and learning for PwDs, as they age, through the development and evaluation of smart homes and spaces.
• Smart spaces can facilitate telemedicine and telework, mitigating the challenges posed by reduced mobility in accessing healthcare, education, and employment.