Biomedical Engineering Students Collaborate with OTD Students on Assistive Technology for Individuals with Disabilities

BME and OTD

Biomedical Engineering students collaborated with Doctor of Occupational Therapy students on assistive technology solutions in their associated Rehabilitation Medicine Engineering and Occupational Therapy and Technology courses during the spring semester.

Associate program director and assistant professor of the School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Kellie Sawyer, OTD, OTR/L, created the final project for second-year OTD students in collaboration with faculty from the School of Engineering & Applied Science to solve real-world challenges faced by individuals with physical and cognitive impairments.

Second-year OTD student Elise Jernigan said, “The most valuable aspect of working with BME students has been gaining a deeper understanding of the importance of technology in enhancing patient care. Their technical insights have improved the design and functionality of assistive devices, allowing us to create reliable equipment for our patients. The collaboration has enabled us to explore the mechanics and innovations necessary to ensure the effectiveness and usability of these devices while also allowing for adaptability to meet patient needs.”

Read more about How Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration is Transforming Assistive Tech and Student Learning at GW.

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