Epilepsy, Essay Example

Definition:  Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by seizures which can range in duration and severity.  While incurable, the use of proper medication can control seizures.  Most students with epilepsy are typical learners, however, those whose seizures are frequent and severe, may have academic and social difficulties (Epilepsy Ontario, 2006).

Causes:  The cause of epilepsy is unknown for approximately half of all people with this disorder.  Children can be born with a brain defect or may suffer an infection or head injury which causes their epilepsy.  In some people, seizures may be triggered by exposure to light, stress, and sleep deprivation (Heward, 2008).

Prevalence:  According to Epilepsy Ontario (2006), 1 in every 100 students have epilepsy.  Except for seizures, there is no outward sign that a child has epilepsy, making open communication between parents and educators crucial.

Classroom Accommodations:  An understanding of epilepsy and how to accommodate a child who may have seizures in the classroom will help children with epilepsy gain social acceptance in the classroom (Epilepsy Ontario, 2006).

Classroom Environment:

• Limit or supervise activities which may prove dangerous if a seizure occurs (i.e. swimming, climbing)
• Provide a safe area where the student can rest when he/she feels a seizure coming on
• Assign a classroom helper to help make student comfortable when seizure occurs

Teacher Presentation/Strategies:

• Minimize work load when child is experiencing fatigue post-seizure
• Use mnemonics to build memory skills
• Employ rote practice when introducing new concepts

Materials:

• Avoid toys/learning tools which utilize flashing lights
• Videos/books about epilepsy can be helpful in educating peers
• Color-coded notebooks to help child organize work

Assessments:

• Adjust assessment schedules to accommodate child’s school absences
• Allow extra time for the completion of tests
• (Epilepsy Ontario, 2006)

References

Epilepsy Ontario. (2006). Teacher’s information booklet. Retrieved from http://www.epilepsyontario.org

Heward, W.L. (2008). Exceptional children: An introduction to special education. 9th ed. New York, NY: Prentice Hall.