Olivia Melberg and Jennifer Lemke learn how to put together and take apart full size and bariatric scooters, intended for higher-weight users. (UWM Photo/Elora Hennessey)
Tyese Kazee gets firsthand experience with a bariatric scooter. (UWM Photo/Elora Hennessey)
Kaylee Schweitzer, Jessica Marcinkus and Joe Michalski learn about head array and sip-and-puff control options and programmable electronics. (UWM Photo/Elora Hennessey)
Liz Bohn tries out a reclining wheelchair with help from Lori Maas from National Seating and Mobility. (UWM Photo/Elora Hennessey)
Each wheelchair has varied technology matched to the needs of the user. (UWM Photo/Elora Hennessey)
Joe Michalski tries out a power assist that uses "smart" wristband that controls the device. The power assist helps deter fatigue and long-term issues from the extra strain on the muscles and joints from a manual wheelchair. (UWM Photo/Elora Hennessey)
Student Emily Kinas tries out a power assist wheelchair. (UWM Photo/Elora Hennessey)
At UWM on Mobility Technology Day, health sciences students sit in and drive a plethora of wheelchairs and other assistive power mobility devices to get hands-on experience.
Many of these students have never used such devices and will gain a higher level of empathy and skills through this lab experience. The students get to learn about this technology so they can help future patients and clients figure out the best equipment tailored for them and how to learn to use it safely. It helps them in their practices as they’re learning about becoming professional.
The course is a part of UWM’s Assistive Technology and Accessible Design Graduate Certificate program, one of the first accredited programs by the Committee on Accreditation for Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Education.
