Crossing Boundaries: How Technology and Occupational Therapy Students Create Solutions Together

This 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 (DMT) and Occupational Therapy (OT) worked together in combined class times to further adapt the car. The collaboration between two distinct disciplines, DMT and OT, 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 partnership demonstrates the power of interdisciplinary collaboration in driving forward progress and creating products that better serve the needs of diverse populations. In summer 2024, students from Occupational Therapy and the Maker’s Club came together to modify four cars for children from Early On. Students completed survey in Fall 2024 that provided opportunities to further improve the project. Currently, students in DMT and OT are adapting 6 additional cars for children with disabilities. In Winter 2025, six cars were adapted by DMT and OT students through combined course activities. 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.