Can We Enhance the Academic Learning Experiences of Children with Epilepsy?
Can We Enhance the Academic Learning Experiences of Children with Epilepsy?
By Irene Elliott, RN, M.HSc., ACNP and Mary Lou Smith, Ph.D.
Instructions:
Option #1: To watch and listen simultaneously on your computer: Click on the link below (“Click here to begin”) to view slides and hear audio together. You will need Flash Player 6.0 or higher to view the presentation.
Option #2: To print the slides and review: Download and print the handout materials for the program by clicking on the word PowerPoint below.
Lecture
Can We Enhance the Academic Learning Experiences of Children with Epilepsy?
Irene Elliott, RN, M.HSc., ACNP and Mary Lou Smith, Ph.D.
This program provides an overview of seizure related, psychosocial and environmental (school) factors that may negatively impact a child’s learning. Speakers present components of a collaborative partnership model between family/child, school and healthcare professionals. They also discuss strategies that a) emphasize balancing seizure safety and learning needs; b) promote a positive social milieu for learning; and c) guide appropriate classroom placement and academic programming.
Target Audience
This program is designed for neuroscience and advanced practice nurses, school nurses, social workers, psychologists, pharmacists and others involved in the care of persons with epilepsy who are interested in enhancing their ability to treat and counsel their patients.
Program goal
To offer Professionals in Epilepsy Care the most up-to-date tools and knowledge so that they can provide the best treatment and education to patients and their families.
Program objectives:
Upon completion of this program it is anticipated that the participants will gain a clearer understanding of various aspects of epilepsy, including:
- Describe why children with epilepsy are at risk for academic underachievement and explain why they may be overwhelmed by the demands of the classroom.
- Identify challenges in the school system that potentially impede a successful learning/academic experience for a child with epilepsy.
- Explain the importance of a collaborative partnership between parents/child, school and healthcare professionals in fostering a positive learning environment.
- Describe strategies that create an environment to maximize the child’s potential for learning.
Lecture Faculty
Irene Elliott, RN, M.HSc., ACNP, Clinical Nurse Specialist/Nurse Practitioner, Division of Neurology and Department of Nursing, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario
Ms. Elliott has worked for more than 11 years providing medical management to children with epilepsy (inpatient EMU and outpatient follow-up) as well as psychosocial support and education to children and families. In addition she has presented more than 40 times to schools, community groups, health agencies and epilepsy chapters during the past several years. She has performed funded research and has several publication focusing on quality of life (physical, social, emotional and behavioral aspects) in children with epilepsy.
Mary Lou Smith, Ph.D., Professor of Psychology, University of Toronto and Neuropsychologist, Department of Psychology and Division of Neurology, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario
Dr. Smith teaches undergraduate and graduate courses on neuropsychology, neuropsychological assessment and disability. She provides clinical services to the epilepsy surgery program at the Hospital for Sick Children. Her research has focused on cognitive and behavioral aspects of epilepsy, outcome of epilepsy surgery and quality of life in children and adults with epilepsy. Dr. Smith has published widely in all areas, having written over 75 papers and book chapters.