Research at the Center for Community-Driven Assistive Technologies
Community members learn from presenters at a CDAT research workshop
The Center for Community-Driven Assistive Technologies (CDAT) is a university-wide research team at Lehigh University, integrating expertise from all five colleges — Engineering, Health, Education, Arts & Sciences, and Business — to advance disability health equity and interdependence. We bridge the gap between academic discovery and real-world application through a unique transdisciplinary model, integrating university researchers, community organizations, and people with disabilities as partners in the innovation process.
Our Research Philosophy
The Center for Community-Driven Assistive Technologies explores novel ways to improve the lives of people with disabilities through three key research activities:
- Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR): We co-design platforms directly with the disability community and service providers to identify real-world needs. This collaborative process ensures high Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) and user adoption.
- Interagency Collaboration: We engage partners across schools, healthcare providers, community organizations, and city governments. By evaluating and promoting “whole person” care, we ensure coordinated, comprehensive support across the lifespan.
- Translational Research: Our work is designed to quickly move discoveries from the lab to commercialization and community practice. We build upon Lehigh’s growing translational research infrastructure to deliver pragmatic solutions that address identified challenges and needs.
This approach ensures that our research innovation moves beyond the theoretical to become practical, life-enhancing tools.
CDAT’s Research Focus Areas
We apply our core research philosophies to three critical areas of life where technology can help close the gap in equity and access. Explore our research on Life Transitions, Mobility & Access, and Smart Spaces.
