Education and Research
WWRC seeks to develop and collaborate in research projects that have the potential to improve the outcomes and contribute to the base of knowledge in the field of vocational services, independent living, and rehabilitative medicine for persons with disabilities. To that end, the WWRC Research Review Committee works with staff, students, and outside researchers to: a) develop research capacity, b) mentor beginning researchers, c) and to monitor research efforts involving WWRC. The goals of the WWRC Research Review Committee are to ensure that all research activities are in compliance with state and federal laws and regulations and are consistent with the mission and priorities of both WWRC and the Department of Rehabilitative Services.
The WWRC Research Review Committee reviews all proposals that involve WWRC staff, students, or client records to assess whether those proposals meet the above criteria. Recommendations are then made to the Center Director and to the DRS Human Subjects Review Board concerning the feasibility of completing proposed projects at WWRC.
WWRC Research Priorities
- Research involving technology to improve the quality of life and/or independence of people with disabilities
- Curriculum and instruction development for adolescents and adults with disabilities
- Increasing employability of people with disabilities
Clinical Trials
- Health Service Delivery (such as telemedicine, alternative service models, evidence based practice, etc.)
- Organizational change / leadership development theory and practice
Areas of Opportunities for Research WWRC
- Physical Therapy
- Occupational Therapy
- Communication Services
- Program Evaluation and Outcome Measurement
- Physical and Restorative Medicine
- Psychology
- Vocational Education
- Vocational Evaluation
- Brain Injury and Stroke
- Spinal Cord Injury
- Independent Living Issues
- Assistive Technology
Additional Resources