Co-design a virtual reality motorised wheelchair simulation with NIISQ PRG member John Hitchens

John Hitchens was at a National Injury Insurance Scheme, Queensland (NIISQ) Participant Reference Group (PRG) meeting, watching RECOVER Injury Research Centre Director Professor Trevor Russel, demonstrate virtual reality (VR) when inspiration struck.

“I thought, if we could do a wheelchair virtual test drive and training without having to transfer into different wheelchairs, then it’s going to be beneficial for everyone, and more cost-effective,” John said.

“I put my idea forward, and it was well-liked.”

From John’s idea, the VR wheelchair simulation project was born. Now led by John (Chief Investigator [Consumer]) and Dr Robert Cuthbert, a VR game design researcher from the University of Queensland’s RECOVER Injury Research Centre, the NIISQ-funded project aims to develop a prototype virtual reality motorised wheelchair simulation to assist in wheelchair prescription and training.

As a Chief Investigator (Consumer), John’s role is central to the project.

“At first, I didn’t know what to expect by being part of the research team,” John said.

“I thought this would be another group thing, where I go and give my opinion. I didn’t really realise how important I am to the whole project. It’s so important for the game to transfer to real life, but it’s been great, I feel heard, and I feel valuable.”

Co-lead researcher, Dr Robert Cuthbert agrees.

“I do the programming and know the ins and outs of research, but I don’t have the lived experience. So, when decisions are made, John keeps us grounded and makes sure we’ve considered how the simulation is going to be used and how it’s going to be implemented,” Dr Cuthbert said.

The first phase of the project involved interviewing motorised wheelchair users and health professionals participating in wheelchair prescription. Twenty-three of the participants interviewed agreed that a simulation would be beneficial for varied reasons, including improving confidence, practising skills with controllers in a safe environment, helping with boredom in the hospital, developing a better understanding of turning circles and drive systems, and the potential for cost savings.

The team are now ready to start phase two – the co-design of the prototype VR simulation. John and Dr Cuthbert are working together to facilitate a series of co-design sessions with health professionals and wheelchair users.

Join the co-design team

Do you use a motorised wheelchair? Join the co-design team and help build a motorised wheelchair simulation. 

If you have questions or would like to register your interest in joining the co-design team, please email Dr Robert Cuthbert