For my senior capstone project I adapted two 12V ride-on cars to make these devices more accessible for children with limited mobility, specifically children with cerebral palsy. This consisted of rewiring the built-in pedal circuit in the car to an easy access, external pressure-sensitive button that acted as the new accelerator. Simultaneously, I created a standardized adaptation process across most ride-on cars documented in a series of different academic and workshop-style media: instructional video, written instructions, and a mini-lesson slide deck teaching about accessible design that other CTE Engineering teachers in the School District of Philadelphia can use.

This project took a lot of planning, communication with my mentor and adaptation support network, and research to complete. The biggest thing that I learned when leading big design projects like this one is to always have multiple backup plans, anticipate miscommunications and setbacks, and thoroughly define the purpose of the project (aka the big takeaway you want audience to have).

The goal of my capstone is to help define what affordable assistive technology is in the scope of autonomous mobility in an easy-access and digestible format, increase awareness of the importance and impact of these devices, and inspire young engineers to consider a career in human-centered design, just as I was encouraged during a multitude of experiences throughout high school.

This is our Q2 Algebra Benchmark. Melissa and I put together our knowledge of lines and their equations to make this project. We hope you learn something from reading out project.

Madi’s Q2 Notebook Project My notebook has really helped me organize my thoughts. My brain tends to be all over the place and having something to write/draw on is really helpful. I also can never remember anything, so I really try to make sure I take quality notes in class to reflect on later. I think it would be interesting if in the future I have a designated drawing section, so I don’t crowd the notes with my doodles. Just so I can be a little more organized.

P.S Google Docs really lessens the quality.

Click Here For Project

Using a notebook is obviously really important when it comes to school. It is a great tool to use when it comes to studying and a great way to project your thoughts. Notebooks have helped me constantly pay attention and keep my brain active. I plan on looking back on my notes more than I already do. It’s hard for me to have the patience to find the notes that I’ve taken on a topic, that’s why I use color and doodle. I also, in a perfect world, want to try and make my notebook even more organized in some way.

The Crash, is about a group of kids who crashland in the woods. They have to figure out how to survive, with no idea if, or when they are being saved. It’s inspired by Far From The Tree because I try to use her writing techniques, as well as creating a story where everyone has a different experience with family. I love how she had them come from different backgrounds and were so different, yet still came together to be a family. I hope you enjoy, and have a good time reading.

Here is my Me Magazine.