Computer games to support arm rehabilitation after stroke - School of Engineering and Built Environment studentship

A GCU Common Good PhD Scholarship

Key words: music technology, music psychology, games, arm rehabilitation, stroke

Project Reference Number: S2017SEBE002
Applications are invited for a full-time PhD research studentship at Glasgow Caledonian University within the School of Engineering and Built Environment.

Background
Recent years have seen an increase in research into the use of commercial video games to improve arm function after stroke. This approach has considerable potential to improve arm function faster and in a more cost-effective manner than through usual care by: increasing engagement with exercise at-home; providing a low-cost adjunct to one to one sessions with a trained therapist; utilising inexpensive off the shelf game technology rather than specialist medical equipment. However, most commercial games have not been designed for people with complex disabilities and would require considerable adaptation for use in the home.

This project will focus on the development of games for arm rehabilitation after stroke, meeting the challenge of developing games that engage stroke survivors with a range of impairments (including arm motor, visual and cognitive impairments), have therapeutic potential, and can be used by individuals in a home setting.
Specifically the project will investigate the potential of music games. There is now a significant body of music psychology research demonstrating the benefits of preferred music listening upon a range of factors related to health and wellbeing. In addition, related research has demonstrated the benefits of rhythmic auditory stimulation integrated with repetitive task practice on arm function in stroke survivors - i.e. the synchronisation of movement with an audible rhythm.
This project will therefore explore the use of inexpensive off the shelf game technology for people with a range of impairments that may affect arm function, and games which incorporate rhythmic auditory stimulation and repetitive task practice embedded in individuals’ preferred music.

A key research aim is therefore to co-create novel, music-based games to improve arm function after stroke, integrating repetitive task practice with rhythmic auditory stimulation. This will require: 1) a systematic investigation of off-the-shelf technology currently available; 2) stakeholder consultation involving stroke survivors and their carers, health care professionals and designers to identify candidate technology; 3) mapping stakeholder requirements onto existing technology and developing this further to achieve the aim of this project.

Research Supervisors
Candidates are encouraged to contact the following researchers for further details:
Dr Don Knox
[Email Address Removed]
http://www.gcu.ac.uk/ebe/staff/don%20knox/
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Don_Knox

Mode(s) of Study
The studentship is available as a:
• PhD: 3 years full-time

Eligibility
Applicants will normally hold a UK honours degree 2:1 (or equivalent); or a Masters degree in a subject relevant to the research project. Equivalent professional qualifications and any appropriate research experience may be considered. A minimum English language level of IELTS score of 6.5 (or equivalent) with no element below 6.0 is required. Some research disciplines may require higher levels.

Specific requirements of the project:
The successful candidate should primarily have demonstrable expertise in computer programming and an interest in games, gaming technology and music. They should ideally also have an interest in the development of technology for health and wellbeing.

How to Apply
Candidates are encouraged to contact the research supervisor(s) for the project before applying. Applicants should download and complete the GCU Research Application Form, available from: http://www.gcu.ac.uk/phdopportunities stating the Project Title and Reference Number (listed above).

The completed GCU Research Application form should be sent with copies of academic qualifications (including IELTS if required), 2 references and any other relevant documentation to: [Email Address Removed]. Applicants shortlisted for a PhD studentship will be contacted for an interview.