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Overview
Amidst the evolving disability landscape, we set our sights to shape a new paradigm of care and practice to better the lives of persons with special needs. At MINDS, our team of trailblazers and visionaries is committed to driving applied research and innovative practices within the disability sector to improve the outcomes and quality of lives for persons with special needs.
Applied Research
Exploring enablers in student achievements, investigating the impact of sports and exercise on quality of lives for persons with disabilities, and implementing an inclusive community living model.
Our desire to enhance the quality of lives and outcomes in persons with special needs has fuelled newer and better ways to deliver our care experiences. By building a culture of evidence-based research and practices, we remain at the cutting edge of the sector to enhance their quality of life and outcomes.
Driving Applied Research to Build Capability
Through nurturing closer collaborations with universities and learning centres, we build capacity and capability in the disability sector to raise standards of care for persons with special needs.
Our collaboration with Griffith University’s Autism Centre for Excellence brings academic perspectives, interdisciplinary practices, and real-world experiences to equip professionals with the relevant skills and competencies to stay ahead of the evolving landscape.
Learn more about our accredited courses here.
Inspiring Lifelong Learning through Evidence-Based Practices
At MINDS, our adults with special needs are learners with an enduring curiosity to understand the world around them. We believe in nurturing that curiosity and enabling them to cultivate their passions and pursue their interests by providing them a host of learning opportunities.
In partnership with the Centre for Disability Studies, the University of Sydney, our Lifelong Learning Programme brings real-world experiences and evidence-based practices to enable persons with special needs to immerse themselves in the joys of learning, equipping them with critical skills to lead an independent and meaningful life.
Applied Research Highlights
Research Reveals Community Participation Enhances Skills in Adults with Intellectual Disabilities
In a quest to develop an optimal model to nurture the community living skills in adults with intellectual disability in a safe environment, MINDS has piloted a Community Living Model where adults with intellectual disability participate in a host of activities in the community. Clients are trained to travel by public transport, make their own purchase at the neighbourhood eateries or supermarkets, and even visit places of interest.
A research study by MINDS’ research arm, MINDS Institute, reveals that the enhanced community participation greatly improves the community living skills of adults with moderate to severe intellectual disability. Clients have been observed to be more confident, outgoing and engaged in the activities. They are also more aware of social situations.
Active Support Increases Client Engagement and Decreases Stereotypical Behaviour, New Study Finds
To engage adults even with the most severe intellectual disability more in their daily lives, MINDS has piloted Project Engage, which employs the principles of Active Support. Clients are given opportunities to engage in a host of meaningful activities alongside other people, develop new skills and connect with fellow peers – as part and parcel of any other ordinary life. This approach not only empowers the clients to take an active part in their own lives, it also promotes independence.
The new study conducted by MINDS’ research arm, MINDS Institute, finds that the group of adults who are engaged using the principles of Active Support saw significantly higher activity engagement, higher staff engagement and decreased stereotypical behaviours.