Covid-19 Research
A NEW EDUCATIONAL NORMAL
In a publication authored by RCET researchers, Dr. Enrico Gandolfi, Dr. Richard E. Ferdig, and Dr. Annette Kratcoski, the authors explored the implications of COVID-19 on parents and teachers through intersectional and digitally divided lenses. The study focused on addressing specific needs and strategies pertaining to technology inclusion, discussions about social justice, and diversity in educational environments. Findings revealed that certain communities lacked digital equality and social support, rather than lacking financial support. Moreover, there was an increase in conversations about race and intersectional themes. The authors posit that these implications offer insights for enhancing the school environment in communities and contexts amid the pandemic and adapting to the "new normal" of academic learning.
PROFESSORS RESEARCH FACE-MASK ALTERNATIVE
Christopher J. Woolverton, Ph.D., Professor of Epidemiology in the College of Public Health, and Richard E. Ferdig, Ph.D., the Summit Professor of Learning Technologies and Professor of Educational Technology, worked on research that tests the filtration efficiency of various types of personal protective equipment. Creative efforts meant to provide a “crisis” alternative mask that provides improved fit compared to a surgical mask. Dr. Ferdig and Dr. Woolverton adapted and evaluated the use of a medical-grade textile for mask development. Initially proposed by University of Florida researchers, the 2-ply spun-polypropylene sterilization wrap, Halyard H600 (Owens & Minor), was suggested to serve as a viable material for mask creation. They created 26 sewn masks that resembled typical surgical masks. The designs of textiles were tested for fit, comfort, and resistance to breathing. The H600 textile used as a surgical wrap is 2-ply. They started with this thickness and increased the thickness sequentially.
DESIGN INNOVATION AWARDED GRANT
With philanthropic support from the Burton D. Morgan Foundation and United Way of Portage County, nearly 3,000 shields have been produced and donated to MedWish, which distributed them to public agencies at no cost. To date, recipients have included Case Western Reserve University’s Geriatric Dentistry Mobile Unit, Bhutanese Response Assistance Volunteer Effort (BRAVE), the city of Cleveland, the city of Kent, Police Pictures, Sewa International and Wingspan Care Group.