RESEARCH

Being driven by the Independent Living paradigm, the Burwood Academy will identify its research priorities through our Model of Independence. This model is formulated on the assumption that communication, mobility and dexterity are the key tenets of independence. These three keys affect our ability to access relationships, vocation and recreation. Quality of life, measured by happiness, is affected when our ability to engage in any of these is limited.

The Burwood Academy of Independent Living will apply this Model of Independence to direct its activities through:

Relevant Rehabilitation Research

• that addresses the needs of recovering New Zealanders
• that facilitates a paradigm change (rehabilitation to independent living)

• An ability to transfer new ideas from laboratory to consumers through product, practice or service development

• Teaching and study programmes for recovering persons, graduate and post graduate students, health professionals and the community

• Clinical Neuropsychology & Neuroscience, Urology, Surgical Orthopaedics, Physical & Occupational Therapies, Bioengineering & Biomechanics, Economics, Social anthropology

• Outcomes Research, Best Practice Guidelines & Evidence Based Practice, Assistive & Adaptive Technology, Surgical & Medical Programmes, Clinical Management, Educational Publications & Community Roles in Rehabilitation

Existing Opportunities

There are a number of significant opportunities which exist that have identified synergies with the proposed Burwood Academy of Independent Living.

• Surgical Orthopaedics (inc. Upper Limb Surgery & COBRA)
• Industrial Research Limited (Assistive Devices)
• Population Studies (Dr Martin Sullivan, Massey)
• Industry Investment (CDC, Trade & Enterprise)
• Sporting Opportunities (Parafed, Wheelchair Rugby)