Date of Award
2025
Document Type
Thesis - ECU Access Only
Publisher
Edith Cowan University
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy
School
School of Arts and Humanities
First Supervisor
Christopher Kueh
Second Supervisor
Stuart Medley
Third Supervisor
Hanadi Haddad
Abstract
The research explores how a co-design approach would influence the redesign of the Statewide Consultancy Program's (SCP) wheelchair seating assessment process. Initially focused on digitising the assessment form, the research evolved to develop a comprehensive wheelchair seating framework. Through collaboration with SCP Therapists, novice therapists, and users/carers, the research incorporated co-design, the aDOPT and Design Ecology frameworks to understand the context and create design outcomes. As the co-design process unfolded new insights shifted the focus from digitisation to understanding the tacit knowledge held by the SCP therapists. These insights enabled the co-design team to develop a wheelchair seating framework, redesign the assessment form and SCP training materials.
The results of these changes were a shift from an anxious and overwhelming experience to a positive experience and increased understanding of the wheelchair seating assessment process by novice therapists. Key design outcomes include a redefined problem space, a new wheelchair seating framework, and a redesigned assessment tool and training resources. By prioritising collaboration and empathy, utilising the novice in the room and the “show me how” approach, the co-design led to a more effective and user-centred assessment process. The research also demonstrates the value of the aDOPT and Design Ecology frameworks for navigating complex design challenges.
DOI
10.25958/pxrs-rx92
Access Note
Access to this thesis is embargoed until 25th April 2026
Recommended Citation
Thom, R. (2025). Beyond the form: Co-designing a holistic wheelchair seating framework. Edith Cowan University. https://doi.org/10.25958/pxrs-rx92