Using Technology to Enhance Physical Literacy, Peer Interaction, Self-efficacy, Self-perception, Social skills, and Adventure-seeking in Autistic Individuals
The Sport Technology Lab at UCalgary is looking for autistic participants between the ages of 16 – 40 and their communication peer (roommate/parent/sibling)–a person who will attend workshops with the participants to help facilitate their involvement–to take part in this study involving the development and usability testing of a novel resource to support physical activity, peer interaction, social skills development, and adventure-seeking in autistic individuals.
In this co-design project, you will be asked to provide feedback on how to improve app design based on your user experience and personal perspective. The app aims to improve physical activity, enjoyment, social connection, and motivation related to being physically active.
In a maximum of four workshops, each lasting 3-4 hours over a two-month period, you will be involved in discussions and examine video and technology tools together with four other autistic individuals and their communication peer. You will help find, develop, or modify a tool that can be used to improve social communication, learn physical skills, and encourage physical activity engagement.
To thank participants for the gift of their time, each will receive a $30 gift card for each workshop. Lunch will be provided. Lastly, the cost of parking at the University will be covered. You will not be reimbursed for any other out-of-pocket expenses.
There are no foreseeable risks as a result of participating in this study and your identity will be kept confidential in any reports or research arising from this project.
Your participation will provide a valuable contribution to finding/creating an important resource for autistic individuals.
For more information, or to volunteer for this study, please contact:
Dr. Homa Rafiei Milajerdi, Post Doc
587 966-0556
OR
Dr. Larry Katz, Professor
403 220-3418
This study has been reviewed by and received ethics clearance
by the Conjoint Health Research Ethics Board (CHREB), University of Calgary. Under the Protocol # Ethics ID: REB20-0007
About the Sport Technology lab at UCalgary
Mission Statement
The mission of the Sport Technology Research Laboratory is to improve human performance and learning through the research and development of technology-based learning models and resources, and to provide a research and learning environment which enables such development.
Our objectives:
- Investigate the impact of technology on performance and learning.
- Develop technology-based resources which enhance performance and learning.
- Liaise with organizations and individuals both on and off campus to promote human performance and learning technology.
- Encourage and coordinate the integration of technology into Faculty of Kinesiology programs.
- Work with industry in developing and disseminating technology based research and resources developed by the STRL.
