Research Study

College Readiness Stories: Study Interest Form

We have several more open slots for qualified students to participate.

We're evaluating the effectiveness of short, interactive story games to help high‑school and college‑bound students with a disability improve their college‑readiness and executive‑function skills in a safe, engaging way.

What participation involves

Use our story‑based app on an iPhone or iPad. Each story takes about 3–5 hours, and there are 4 stories. The student will play each story, then move to the next over several weeks.
Complete short pre‑ and post‑surveys about college‑readiness and study experience.
A teacher, counselor, or parent completes brief check‑ins and a short questionnaire.
Compensation: Participants and their teacher/counselor/parent receive e‑gift cards after completing study activities. Amount confirmed during onboarding — from $50 to $200 depending on participation level.

College Readiness Stories app screenshot

Who can join

Students with a disability, typically ages 16–21, college‑bound or exploring college.
A quiet place at home to use the app; ability to operate an iPhone or iPad.
Parent/guardian consent for minors; adults (18+) may self‑consent.
You must provide your school or organization email address.

Submitting this form only expresses interest. The research team will follow up with official consent/assent documents before any study activities begin. You need to participate in a short video interview before you are accepted.

About the stories

Students experience realistic campus‑life scenarios — time‑management, communication, self‑advocacy, independent living — and make choices that shape the story. They can safely see the consequences of decisions and practice better strategies next time.

Privacy & oversight

This study follows an Institutional Review Board‑approved protocol. Participation is voluntary, risks are minimal, and responses are de‑identified in reports. You may stop at any time.

The Research

This study was funded through the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research, a division of Health & Human Services. Researchers include Dr. Eric Endlich, Dr. Ryan Martin, Dr. Howard Wills, Dr. Staci Carr, and Ms. Emily Raclaw. Study will be managed by LXD Research.

Want to try it first?

You (or your student) can play a short scene from some stories on any browser. Click "Try Our Demos" on the page below:

↗ LifeLaunch Virtual Adventures Demo

Your contact info

Fill out the form below and our research team will follow up with next steps.