Using Hand-Held Computers for Ambulatory Self-Monitoring

This project will develop a computerized self-monitoring system (CSMS) for use in clinical andresearch settings. The product will be a toolkit that will allow behavioral scientists with no programmingexperience to develop and implement a broad range of customized self-monitoring protocols. The toolkitwill consist of a front-end software program (FESP), a hand-held computer (HHC), and hardware forexchanging information between the hand-held computer and any other PC. The FESP will be used todevelop the assessment protocols, which will then be downloaded to and implemented via the HHC.The HHC will be carried by research subjects or therapy patients and used as an interactiveself-monitoring tool. A primary feature of the product will be the capability to rapidly upload data fromthe HHC to the FESP. Phase l will emphasize development and testing of a prototype CSMS. DuringPhase Il, a more complete CSMS will be developed, and broad-based testing of the product will beconducted in a variety of clinical and research contexts.