Context

The use of technology within mental healthcare received an unexpected and abrupt boost as a result of the Corona crisis. In particular, image calling was massively adopted, in a sector that had previously been extremely reluctant to look at technology applications. The turnaround revealed frustrations and gaps, but also offers potential. Many counsellors are exploring various forms of technology at a small pace, although they note that desired applications are often still lacking or that deploying applications within a Flemish context often requires (literally and figuratively) translation work.

Within the Expertise Unit Psychology, Technology & Society, extensive expertise has already been built up on the possibilities offered by technology and the methods with which these can be optimally used. As part of this PWO project, concrete practical applications are being set up in both the short and medium term. On the one hand, we can immediately make use of our existing expertise, but on the other hand, the various activities that are being set up with academic and work field partners also aim to further research the theoretical foundations and general evidence of these approaches, in order to allow the Flemish sectors of welfare and mental health to make better use of technological applications.

Objectives

The diversity of technology forms translates into several lines of research, specifically

• the implementation and uptake of 2 online applications in practice.
• the substantiation of the relevance and added value for wearables outside controlled lab settings.
• optimising the ease of use and underpinning the evidence base for emerging immersive technologies.
• working out a methodology for training evaluation.

More info?

Do not hesitate to contact project coordinator Tom Van Daele.