Andrea D. Fairman-Laferrier, Ph.D., OTR/L, CPRP, ATP is an Associate Professor of Occupational Therapy and Capstone Coordinator at Johnson and Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island. Her research is primarily focused on the development, testing, and clinical application of mHealth applications and assistive technologies for persons with disabilities and chronic conditions. She has served as a project leader in a previous RERC and is working with Dr. Ding on the ASSIST DRRP. Dr. Fairman has practiced occupational therapy in a wide variety of settings for over 20 years.
Current Project(s):
Project Leader, Mobile Access Assessment
Fun Tech Fact Questions & Answers:
Q: Mainstream tech device you can’t live without? Why?
A: The smartphone. Portability to be able to access information whenever and wherever. Although, I have been trying more often to leave it from time to time to disconnect.
Q: What was your first cell phone?
A: I was provided a pager and cell phone for my car when I worked as an Intensive Case Manager in 1999--23 years ago!
Q: What mainstream tech device is at the top of you wish list?
A: Hmmm. I don't really hold back on buying a device if I am wishing for it.
Q: Or what new tech can you not get enough of?
A: Fitness trackers. I find the personal data to be very motivating. I have also found that I don't really want to have all the features of a smartwatch when I am working out.
Q: If you were a mainstream tech device, what would you be, and why?
A: Well, I am sort of a task-master. Some (my husband and daughter) might call it "nagging," but I like to think of it as providing helpful "reminders." Many mainstream tech devices have the capability to provide reminders. I would probably be a smart speaker since my reminders tend to be auditory and I can talk a lot.