Research

Why Go It Alone: The Use of Public Resources to Enhance Computer Accessibility for Individuals with Cognitive Disabilities. This collaborative Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) project is funded by the US Department of Education, National Institute on Disability & Rehabilitation Research. In this two-year project, Dr. Fox is collaborating with colleagues at Life Technologies, LLC to identify and develop resources that enhance public computing accessibility for individuals with cognitive impairments. The team has created a web-based tool for matching appropriate computing technology to an individual's needs and resources. Additionally the team is developing and evaluating a flash drive with auto-launch capabilities that can be used by people with cognitive impairments to access web-based social interaction applications including adapted email, accessible web browsing, and online therapy activities.

Solution-focused therapy for families living with aphasia. Dr. Fox collaborates with Dr. Jim Andrews (emeritus faculty from Northern Illinois University) and Mary Andrews (licensed marriage and family counselor) to conduct research evaluating outcomes of intervention for adults with aphasia and their family members. This unique intervention technique draws upon a family's resources to identify and maximize functional communication and life participation.