# Our focus

**<span data-contrast="none">Mission &amp; Core Identity</span>**<span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"134245418":true,"134245529":true,"335559738":281,"335559739":281}"> </span>

<span data-contrast="auto">The RESTORE Hub (</span>**<span data-contrast="auto">R</span>**<span data-contrast="auto">esearch, </span>**<span data-contrast="auto">E</span>**<span data-contrast="auto">ducation, </span>**<span data-contrast="auto">S</span>**<span data-contrast="auto">ervice, </span>**<span data-contrast="auto">T</span>**<span data-contrast="auto">ransition, and </span>**<span data-contrast="auto">O</span>**<span data-contrast="auto">utreach through </span>**<span data-contrast="auto">R</span>**<span data-contrast="auto">eflective </span>**<span data-contrast="auto">E</span>**<span data-contrast="auto">ngagement) is a social and behavioral sciences research institute. Our primary mission is to improve the quality of life for all communities through services, research, education, innovation, and collaboration.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"335559738":240,"335559739":240}"> </span>

[![ramajacob.png](https://kb.astate.edu/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/scaled-1680-/ramajacob.png)](https://kb.astate.edu/uploads/images/gallery/2026-01/ramajacob.png)

**<span data-contrast="none">Research Strategy</span>**<span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"134245418":true,"134245529":true,"335559738":281,"335559739":281}"> </span>

<span data-contrast="auto">Our research agenda is grounded in "Implementation Science"—bridging the gap between theoretical research and practical application. We utilize rigorous scientific methods to support vulnerable populations and improve community outcomes. Our strategic focus areas include:</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"335559738":240,"335559739":240}"> </span>

- **<span data-contrast="auto">Assessment of Enabling Technologies:</span>**<span data-contrast="auto"> We investigate how emerging technologies, such as VR and AI, can be utilized to empower individuals with disabilities, rather than developing the hardware ourselves.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"335559738":240,"335559739":240}"> </span>

- **<span data-contrast="auto">Measurement &amp; Psychometrics:</span>**<span data-contrast="auto"> We engage in the creation of new valid assessment tools, as well as the evaluation of pre-existing measures, to ensure accurate data regarding family and community wellness.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"335559738":240,"335559739":240}"> </span>

- **<span data-contrast="auto">Population Health Analysis:</span>**<span data-contrast="auto"> We utilize large-scale datasets, such as the Arkansas All-Payer Claims Database, to identify comorbidity patterns, service utilization trends, and costs across the state.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"335559738":240,"335559739":240}"> </span>

- **<span data-contrast="auto">Program Evaluation:</span>**<span data-contrast="auto"> We design and implement frameworks to gauge the performance and success of grant-funded consortiums and transition programs.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"335559738":240,"335559739":240}"> </span>

- **<span data-contrast="auto">Intervention Efficacy:</span>**<span data-contrast="auto"> We conduct controlled trials (including RCTs) to determine the effectiveness of psycho-educational interventions and digital coaching tools for reducing anxiety and increasing knowledge.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"335559738":240,"335559739":240}"> </span>

- **<span data-contrast="auto">Longitudinal Wellness Tracking:</span>**<span data-contrast="auto"> We commit to long-term data collection to monitor shifts in health, wellbeing, and belongingness among student and community populations over time.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"335559738":240,"335559739":240}"> </span>