Dr. Roberts is currently involved in two major research projects. As part of a SSHRC funded research grant, the quality of life and school experiences of children with congenital heart disease are being explored. In addition, Dr. Roberts is conducting qualitative research with children who have undergone the Nuss surgical procedure for correcting Pectus Excavatum.

School Children with Congenital Heart Disease

The purpose of this study is to better understand the school experiences of children with congenital heart disease and their families and to share this information with school districts.
The specific objectives are to:
(1) Identify the perceptions and experiences of the primary caregivers regarding interactions with schools that affect both the child and family's quality of life;
(2) Clarify how families think schools can best support, accommodate, and prepare for these children and their families; and,
(3) Share this information with school districts through the development of a school handbook.

Nuss Procedure for Correcting Pectus Excavatum

The purpose of this study is to better understand the quality of life experiences of children who have undergone the Nuss Pectus Excavatum Procedure and to develop a more comprehensive foundation of knowledge to enable medical and school professionals to better support these children.
The specific project objectives are:

1. To better understand what life is like for these children after the surgical procedure.
2. To identify possible changes in their quality of life from the perspective of the children.
3. To identify changes in quality of life from the perspective of the parents.