Dr. Samuel Logan
Samuel W. Logan, PhD.
Sam joined faculty at Oregon State University in 2014 and currently serves as an Associate Professor in Kinesiology/Adapted Physical Activity within the College of Public Health and Human Sciences. Sam is an internationally-recognized leader in the field of mobility technology and training. He conducts interdisciplinary research across the fields of kinesiology, psychology, and rehabilitation.
Sam’s research targets young children with disabilities, a population that is vulnerable because they face two layers of discrimination as individuals with disabilities as well as young children who do not have a voice in their mobility-related decisions until they are much older. There are no commercially available motorized wheelchairs for young children with disabilities creating a need for intervention and technology. Modified ride-on cars fill this gap in technology. Commercially available, battery-operated, ride-on cars are adapted by installing a large, easy-to-press activation switch. Common materials such as PVC pipe, swimming kick-boards, and Velcro are used to provide customized seating support.
Sam is committed to teaching innovative courses such as an Honors College course titled Toy-Based Technology for Children with Disabilities and incorporates use of a 3D printer into course assignments. He has also enjoyed mentoring several graduate students over the past several years.
Education:
BA, Psychology, University of Delaware (2006)
MS, Exercise and Sport Science, University of Delaware (2008)
PhD, Kinesiology, Auburn University (2012)
Post-doctoral fellowship, Pediatric Rehabilitation, University of Delaware (2012-2014)