Our research lab
As the research branch of When Toys Age, our mission is to examine the big internal questions that are asked globally, and the universal change people wish to see in the world. Specifically, our focus is on how to mobilize change through shifts in human perception, experiences, and behavior via research.
Measures
Student Quality of Life Index (QSLI)
Introduction: The Quality of Student Life Index (QSLI) examines the quality of life and wellbeing of a student.
Measure: QSLI is a 35-item assessment that measures 7 major statistics: quality of academic experience, quality of non academic experience, quality of school relationships, quality of school environment, quality of personal development, quality of skill development, quality of professional development.
Impact: The index provides a comprehensive look at the student experience, and can be used to identify areas for improvement and measure the success of improvements already made by schools and school districts. The purpose of QSLI is to start measuring school performance the way we measure performance in our nations and organizations: with quality of life as an indicator.
Application: To be taken by students both individually and in school
The Equilibrium Scale (EQS)
Introduction: Equilibrium Scale (EQS) measures an individual’s equilibrium through the level of fulfillment in their daily routine and activities.
Measure: EQS is a 12-item, self-report questionnaire designed to assess an individual’s equilibrium levels. The items inquire about the degree to which an individual feels growth toward their ideal life and ideal self in their day to day lives, as well as various daily characteristics such as happiness and gratitude, excitement and motivation, fulfillment and balance, and focus and productivity. Items are scored on a scale of 0 “Never” to 5 “Almost everyday.” Scores are then totaled and presented from 0-60.
Impact: This assessment provides an overall view of an individual’s equilibrium, and can be used to measure the level of alignment between an individual’s current and ideal lives. Rather than assessing for a subjective judgment of satisfaction like previous scales, the EQS focuses on the key thoughts and emotions experienced daily within individuals. By redirecting the assessment of fulfillment toward specific equilibrium traits, individuals may identify specific areas of their lives to manipulate, build, and measure. We believe this assessment contributes a significant step toward our understanding of the human mindset and the science behind living a fulfilled life.
Application: To be taken by individuals daily, monthly, or quarterly
Value of Life Index (VLI)
Introduction: Value of Life Index (VLI) attempts to measure the resources and commitment placed by countries on the value of human life.
Several global indicators have emerged in the past century in attempt to measure and compare the standards of living across countries. The Economist Intelligence Unit’s Where-to-be-born Index (previously Quality of Life Index) has been adopted globally and is used as an indicator of quality of life. This spans across various domains, including international development, healthcare, and politics, and is measured completely in financial terms.
In more recent years, researchers have identified numerous gaps in the measure, and have developed additional measures such as the Human Development Index (HDI), World Happiness Report, Physical Quality of Life Index (PQLI), Social Progress Index (SPI) and many others. The purpose of VLI is to contribute to the existing research and emphasize what we believe is one of the most important research gaps in measuring global progress.
Application: To be measured globally on an annual basis
Thought Models
The Triple Alignment Model (TAM)
Introduction: The Triple Alignment Model is a strategic model and management tool used by leaders to 1) identify and diagnose misalignment, and 2) continuously build and measure for alignment in their lives, relationships, teams, and organizations.
In 2009, organizational consultant Simon Sinek delivered his “Start With Why” TED talk that inspired organizations of all sizes to revisit their vision. The Triple Alignment Model expands on his core belief by integrating the how, the what, the who, and the where into the why.
Model: TAM takes an overall look at the alignment between the vision, mission, goals, and values.
Application: TAM can be used by individuals and organizations consistently and as needed
The Equilibrium Framework
Introduction: The Equilibrium Framework is a life design and management system.
The framework we look at everyday determines our mindset and the way we approach, live, and measure our everyday lives. To live a complete and balanced life, we must start with the foundational framework.
Framework: The Equilibrium Framework mirrors the patterns of each individual’s month, week, and day. (Completeness): It captures an elegant sense of completeness from top to bottom in and (Balance): The left and right sections mirror one another in a delicate union of equilibrium.
The framework is embedded intricately with mindset structures that capture each individual’s everyday inflection points to rewire the mindset and shape their way individuals approach, live, and measure your life.
Application: The Equilibrium Framework has been integrated into a journal, The Equilibrium Journal
Projects In Progress
Equilibrium & mental health: Depression, anxiety, and emotion regulation strategies through the eyes of equilibrium
The Value of Life: Measuring our way into the future of government and humanity
Quality of Student Life: The success indicator we need to implement in every school across the U.S.
The Equilibrium Scale: Assessing individual fulfillment through daily traits