Shaking, Staring and Twitching: Learning About Seizures and Epilepsy
What's included
1 live meeting
50 mins in-class hoursClass Experience
This class will examine what a seizure really is by describing the neurohormonal activity of the brain, that is, how hormones and electrical impulses work together to make our brain function. By understanding the normal, students will gain an appreciation for what a seizure is, as it represents a disruption of normal brain activity. They will then learn the distinction between a seizure and epilepsy. We will learn about various types of seizures, a few causes of seizures and the symptoms and signs of the various types. They will understand the difference between what we see and what the patient experience is like during a seizure. I will also help them gain an appreciation for the challenges sometimes faced when living with an epileptic syndrome. To close we will learn an overview of some tools used in diagnosis such as the EEG (electroencephalogram) and finally, test their knowledge of being able to identify a particular type of seizure! It is my hope that through this class, learners gain factual insight into seizures and epilepsy that will inform how they interact. My classes are always fun and casual, as this is my teaching style. I encourage free talking and discussion but also create a comfortable environment for the quiet and shy amongst us; you can talk as little or as much as you want! I use conversation, slides and review games to impart the knowledge and encourage questions throughout. You need no prior knowledge to take this course! Please message me if you have any questions! The general structure of the sessions will be: 5 minutes introductions/icebreaking/initial questions/describing session objectives 40 minutes covering main topics as seen below (questions will be taken throughout) 5 minutes learners describing what they learnt for the day to ensure clarity The topics will include: What is a Seizure? What is Epilepsy? Types of Seizures- Focal, generalised, simple, complex, status epilepticus What we see vs what patients feel/know How seizures are managed (general overview): EEG, precautions, medication If you want a better understanding of what seizures are and what happens when people have epilepsy then this class is for you!
Learning Goals
Students will learn:
What a seizure really is
The difference between seizures and epilepsy
Symptoms and Signs of Epilepsy
Overview of what it takes to manage epilepsy
Other Details
Parental Guidance
Although some seizures can be traumatic to see, this class will not include any graphic material or descriptions.
Supply List
nil
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Teacher expertise and credentials
I am a family doctor with heavy experience in Paediatrics. I've treated numerous patients with seizures, from one time febrile seizures to all types of seizure disorders. I've spent time assigned specifically to the neurology outpatient clinic and so have dealt with patients who have well controlled disorders as well as those with intractable seizures. Most of all I've had the honour of seeing those with epileptic disorders thrive along with the character building experience of supporting the families which can often bear a heavy load as caretaker. I have good knowledge and reflection upon these pathologies and I am happy to help others understand in the simplest way I can.
Reviews
Live One-Time Class
$30
per classMeets once
50 min
Completed by 7 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 10-15
1-10 learners per class