The Expertise Unit Psychology, Technology & Society of the Department of Applied Psychology (Thomas More University of Applied Sciences) conducts applied, practice-oriented research about digital technology from a psychological perspective. We have a strong focus on the interaction between both domains and the synergy they create, in particular within mental healthcare and human-technology interaction. Most of our members are post-doctoral researchers.   

Selection of ongoing projects & networks

• Carewear (started in 2015): wearable technology in mental health care: project leader for 570k TETRA project, funded by Flanders Innovation and Entrepreneurship & co-financed by Flemish partners
• eMEN (started in 2016): development and dissemination of e-mental health in mental health care: project partner of a 5.3M Interreg NWE project, funded by ERDF & own co-financing
• COST-action “European network on individualized psychotherapy treatment of young people with mental disorders” ”: member management committee
• COST-action “European network for problematic usage of the internet”: member management committee

What makes us an outstanding potential research partner?

• We are the largest university of applied sciences in Belgium.
• We provide the largest bachelor education in applied psychology in Belgium & The Netherlands.
• We are part of the KU Leuven Association network.
• We have a strong focus on practice-oriented research about technology from a psychological and mental health perspective.
• We collaborate extensively in European research and networking projects, e.g. Interreg, COST, EFPA TF on e-Health. 
• We are actively involved in an extensive network of connected SMEs and non-profit organisations primarily in the field of mental healthcare.
• We deliver on-demand research focused on optimization of eHealth-service.

Contact

• Tom Van Daele, PhD –  tom.vandaele@thomasmore.be – head of expertise unit