As you probably don't know, I'm in the throes of getting a PhD in Information Science -- a discipline that studies knowledge (and information) and how humans use it and share it. The last time I posted on this topic, I got some very helpful comments that really helped refine one of the sections of my research.
Today, I acquired a third (and final!) committee member, meaning my research can go forward. As I was talking about the questions I propose to ask the ones who agree to be part of my study, she stopped me and said, "Have you run these past a test population to see if the answers they give will actually get the data you want?"
"...err... no?"
"Do that," she replied.
So... if any of you are so disposed, would you give me some feedback on the questions below the orange squiggle.
Here's the goal: I want to find out how people get information about mobility devices -- PARTICULARLY when the "rules change"
I've been told that "oh, people know because when you become impaired there's programs that help you find the right device and get you on all the right programs." I'm told this by the non-disabled and, frankly, I find it a little hard to believe.
Now my focus is turning to "what happens after that" ... in other words, when your health suddenly changes, or the device breaks or when the doc you've been using retires, when a therapist leaves, when a website vanishes, when the state suddenly changes the rules, when you switch insurance providers.
Where do you turn when there's a change and you need help? If you knew someone who has an old electric wheelchair that they can't get repaired (and they're very poor -- the chair's an expensive one that raises up and down so they can drive a vehicle), is there some recommendation you'd make to help them get a new or replacement chair (I realize this recommendation will change depending on the area where you live)?
I know the data I want, but I need to check with people who KNOW to see if the questions I'm asking make sense or will give me what I want.
I know these things:
* people have information sources they trust
* some are better than others
* some don't seem to take it seriously when you ask them for information
Here's a list of sources that I think people use for information on mobility devices (truthfully, it can be on any assistive device.)
What am I missing that SHOULD be in this list? What needs to be taken out?
• Books
• Libraries
• Internet
• Family members
• Friends
• Nurse
• Doctor
• VA?
• Therapist
• Caregiver
• Manufacturer
• Social worker
• Public school disability program
• University disability program
• Organization
• Advertisements
• TV
What kinds of information do you seek or need from these sources?
• Device size
• Device function
• New types of devices
• What insurance pays for
• Assistance program
I would be grateful for any feedback you care to leave (including comments on unclear wording or other issues.)