Research in Action

Occupational therapy–informed research on executive function, engagement, and access through hands-on learning.

MPOWERME conducts real-world research exploring how multisensory, project-based learning supports whole-child participation across early childhood and elementary settings.

View Current Research (K–5 Hands-On Learning Projects)

🌟 WHY THIS RESEARCH

Increasing needs in executive function and self-regulation
Engagement challenges in traditional learning environments
Limited access for diverse learners without movement and sensory supports
Need for evidence-informed, inclusive instructional design

Our research applies an occupational therapy lens to learning design — focusing on participation, regulation, and access.

Featured Research:

FETC 2026 Pilot Studies

Pilot 1 - Upper Elementary PBL

Hands-On Habitat Design Challenge (Ages 8–10)

Students engaged in a multi-session design challenge using hands-on modeling and structured PBL lessons to strengthen problem-solving and collaboration.

Key Outcomes:

Executive function growth (planning, flexibility, persistence)
Increased collaboration and communication
High engagement through hands-on construction

View Data Highlights

Pilot 2 - Early Learning PBL

Story-Based Coding & Problem Solving (Ages 5 – 6)

Storytelling, movement, and tangible coding experiences supported early executive function and communication.

Key Outcomes (bullets):

Growth in executive function and SEL
Improved persistence through debugging routines
Joyful, whole-body engagement

View Data Highlights

Learning in Real Settings

Photos and captions document authentic participation during pilot implementation.

Accessibility note:
All images include descriptive alt text.

Our Approach

OUR RESEARCH APPROACH (MPOWERME LENS)

Occupational therapy, speech-language therapy & sensory integration principles
Universal Design for Learning (UDL)
Multisensory, movement-based learning
Developmentally appropriate practice
Inclusive participation for diverse learners

We measure success through engagement, regulation, and participation — not just numeric outcomes.

Collaborative by Design

MPOWERME leads research through a clinical and educational lens, grounding findings in occupational therapy and whole-child development.

We collaborate with Play To Do to translate research into scalable tools, curricula, and learning experiences — always guided by client and learner needs.