Dr. Hongwu Wang is an assistant professor at the University of Florida College of Public Health and Health Professions, Department of Occupational Therapy. As a biomedical engineer and rehabilitation scientist, he develops and applies well-thought-out technology approaches to address issues in health, function, and occupational performance to improve the well-being and quality of life of all, especially for people with disabilities and older adults. His research focuses on user participatory design, wearable and mHealth, rehabilitation robotics, machine learning, assistive technology, and data-driven outcome measures. Dr. Wang has received research and training grants from the National Institute on Disability Independent Living and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR), the Administration for Children & Families (ACF), the Department of Education, and the Craig H. Neilsen Foundation to design, develop and evaluate technology for health and well-being across the lifespan. Dr. Wang is proud to be part of the Happy Teacher project. He applies his biomedical engineering expertise to monitor the teachers’ physical and psychological health and well-being using wearables. His long-term goal is to apply state-of-the-art technologies to provide non-intrusive interventions to promote the health and well-being of the teachers.
Fun Fact: Hongwu started working as a tutor when he was in 9th grade. He taught math, physics, and English to more than 10 children from 5th to 12th grade. He loves working with children and their teachers. He has been a volunteer and advocator for organizations to foster public enthusiasm and support for early education and STEM.
Encouraging message: You truly make a difference in the lives of the children and families you serve, and for that, we are grateful. Your impact on the lives of the children in your care will stay with them for a lifetime.
