Background: Evidence indicates that intensive post−stroke rehabilitation improves function, independence and quality of life (Kwakkel 2004; Pollock et al., 2007. A key aspect of rehabilitation is the provision of appropriate information and feedback to the learner. 

Advances in information technology (IT) have allowed for the development of various systems to complement stroke rehabilitation that could be used in the home setting. These systems may increase the provision of rehabilitation a stroke survivor receives and carries out (The Royal Society 2006; Liebermann et al., 2006).

 

Aim:  To investigate the extent to which stroke survivors can utilise extrinsic feedback from computer−based technology to facilitate rehabilitation in the home.

 

Method: Located in the constructivist paradigm, this on-going multiple case study focuses on the experience of utilising computer feedback for upper limb stroke rehabilitation in the home. Following a pilot investigation, two focus groups with Community Stroke Teams were followed by multi-method case studies before, during and after the use of computer-based equipment. Thematic analysis of within case and cross case was conducted.

Results: Initial themes indicate personal influences such as; personal goals, preferred feedback, their model of recovery and chronicity as well as external influences such as; previous service delivery, social context and practicalities may impact on how patients utilise computer-based feedback.

Conclusion: Initial data suggests that therapists provide a model of service delivery that is led by their empirical knowledge which may not be conducive to motor learning. In addition to personal preferences for the type of feedback patients receive; patients may be influenced by their experience of service delivery prior to using computer-based feedback.