[CCL Talk] Bridging Experiential Service-Learning and Empathy in Co-Design of Gerontechnology and Assistive Technology

This talk highlights the creation of two undergraduate courses in NUS focused on gerontechnology and assistive technology (AT) for elderly and disabled communities. These courses aim to address the lack of local talent in designing and developing assistive technologies. Unlike traditional engineering courses, these incorporate a unique experiential, community-based learning approach where students engage with real clients—older adults and persons with disabilities (PwDs)—to co-design solutions that meet unmet needs. Students work in groups, applying their technical knowledge to develop prototypes based on client specifications.

The courses have run five times, with 277 students participating. Instead of exams, students present their prototypes as gifts to clients, ensuring sustained engagement. Successful projects, such as an assistive stretcher and exergames for seniors, have been adopted for daily use. The process fosters empathy and higher-order learning, demonstrating the students' ability to create practical solutions. To date, we have at least seven prototypes been refined as products that are sold and deployed in the community. This approach shows the potential for undergraduate courses to drive meaningful community impact in the development of assistive technologies and their real-world application.