Powered mobility intervention: understanding the position of tool use learning as part of implementing the ALP tool

Abstract

Purpose: To explore the knowledge necessary for adoption and implementation of the Assessment of Learning Powered mobility use (ALP) tool in different practice settings for both adults and children. To consult with a diverse population of professionals working with adults and children, in different countries and various settings; who were learning about or using the ALP tool, as part of exploring and implementing research findings.

Method: Classical grounded theory with a rigorous comparative analysis of data from informants together with reflections on our own rich experiences of powered mobility practice and comparisons with the literature.

Results: A core category learning tool use and a new theory of cognizing tool use, with its interdependent properties: motivation, confidence, permissiveness, attentiveness and co-construction has emerged which explains in greater depth what enables the application of the ALP tool.

Conclusions: The scientific knowledge base on tool use learning and the new theory conveys the information necessary for practitioner’s cognizing how to apply the learning approach of the ALP tool in order to enable tool use learning through powered mobility practice as a therapeutic intervention in its own right. This opens up the possibility for more children and adults to have access to learning through powered mobility practice.

Implications for rehabilitation

• Tool use learning through powered mobility practice is a therapeutic intervention in its own right.

• Powered mobility practice can be used as a rehabilitation tool with individuals who may not need to become powered wheelchair users.

• Motivation, confidence, permissiveness, attentiveness and co-construction are key properties for enabling the application of the learning approach of the ALP tool.

• Labelling and the use of language, together with honing observational skills through viewing video footage, are key to developing successful learning partnerships.

Keywords:

• Clinical assessment tool
• cognitive disabilities
• early intervention
• occupational performance
• partnership
• powered wheelchair
• video analysis

Disclosure statement

The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of this article.