Louise Puli

Growing the global assistive technology workforce

Louise Puli’s PhD research focuses on growing the global assistive technology (AT) workforce, specifically in the area of mobility assistive products. Mobility assistive products, such as wheelchairs and walking aids, are essential for millions of people worldwide to maintain independence and participate fully in their communities. However, there is a significant gap in the availability of trained professionals who can provide these products safely and effectively.

Louise’s research, supervised by Christina Ekegren, Natasha Layton, and Libby Callaway, will explore and develop a set of competencies that are required for mobility AT providers to meet the diverse needs of individuals requiring these products. Her work involves a series of studies using various research methods. First, she will identify existing global competency standards and compare them to the World Health Organization's (WHO) Rehabilitation Competency Framework. Then, through focus groups and Delphi processes, she will gather insights from service providers, users, and other stakeholders to achieve a consensus on the necessary competencies for AT providers.

Ultimately, Louise aims to develop a curriculum that incorporates these newly established competency standards and pilot test it to ensure its effectiveness in training AT providers. The goal of this research is to contribute to the development of a well-trained global workforce capable of providing high-quality mobility assistive products, thereby improving accessibility and quality of life for individuals who rely on these essential technologies.