RESEARCH

➢ Informal survey data has been collected from the beginning of the project which helped to provide a reference point for reactions/responses towards the nature of the RDC project including: 1. perceptions of disability, 2. perceptions of dance and disability, and 3. attitudes towards assistive technologies used for disability/aging needs.
Megan Matuza (graduate student in Mental Health Counseling) assisted with some of the data organization for the project (feedback from community, students, faculty, medical practitioners, etc.) in spring 2007.

Additional research:

➢ A Market Assessment for the prototype device was completed by a USF graduate class (Dr. Michael Fountain – Professor) in the Center for Entrepreneurship in fall 2007.

➢ Choreography has been created throughout the project development as part of the on-going investigation in motion and artistic expression utilizing the prototype dance chair, Segways, and various other rolling devices.

➢ Research collaboration relating to all of the design aspects is on-going in terms of best and most economical materials to use and best method of construction.

➢ IRB approved research was conducted analyzing the velocity and mass relationships of the chair in connection with the degree of tilt in all directions. Feedback was also collected from various individuals with and without disabilities regarding the chair function. Honors student, Elisa McQueen also used this research towards her honors thesis (spring 2008).