Every day occupational therapists work with students who struggle in school. However, the classroom environment can be overwhelming for many.

“My mom’s an occupational therapist and I’ve assisted her in the classroom over the years. Mom and I discussed how students with CAPD (Central Auditory Processing Disorder) have difficulty with concentrating over the background noise.”

That small conversation was the impetus for Jody Vankeuren’s idea—and Bluetooth Breakthrough Award entry. Jody, 20, is working on creating a Bluetooth® enabled headset that blocks out background noise while relaying only what the teacher is communicating. The device would also be equipped with an automatic recording application that could relay information at home. Jody feels this would help lessen the struggles with homework if the device could deliver the lesson through a recording.

“I noticed how difficult school can be for some and how a difficult day at school can lead to a defeatist attitude that continues at home. I want to be able to use Bluetooth technology to make school enjoyable.”

Jody loves technology and all of its “undiscovered uses” intrigues her. However, she feels technology is complex and she doesn’t fully understand the majority of it.

“I have a laptop I absolutely love but when it comes to phones, I am a creature of habit with my basic flip phone. It serves its purpose in my life. I do love the use of technology to solve problems. For instance, the work people are doing with 3D printers and prosthetics astounds me. The use of technology to make life more enjoyable for those with difficulties is a worthwhile cause.”

Jody’s next steps to bring her idea fruition are to form a creative team and begin the design process. Then she hopes to launch the product on Kickstarter to earn enough money to build a prototype. She can then partner with local schools and work hand-in-hand with individual CAPD students to perfect the device.

Other things to know about Jody:

Jody’s favorite subject in school is art but she loves chemistry and physics

Jody attended robotics camp during the summer—“We made robots that could draw and even fashioned a hovercraft.”

Jody wants creative expression in her life—“In ten to fifteen years, I see myself as graduated from college with my bachelor’s degree hopefully with my own business or happily working for a company that understands my need for creative expression.”

(Credit: Nanci Taplett)