Incorporation of Epilepsy into Life Skills Education: Perceptions of Primary School Learners in Mpumalanga and Limpopo Province—A Qualitative Exploratory Study

Abstract

Providing education on epilepsy is crucial, as this helps individuals to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively manage seizures while also reducing the stigma and misconceptions surrounding the condition. The aim of this research was to examine how learners perceive the integration of epilepsy education into life skills training. A descriptive-exploratory design was utilized for the study. The research took place in the provinces of Limpopo and Mpumalanga, located in South Africa, where primary schools in chosen rural communities were selected for the research. Six focus group discussions were conducted with learners aged 9 to 14 years in grades 4 to 7. Each group was comprised of six learners, resulting in a total of 36 individuals who satisfied the inclusion criteria. Data were collected from August to November 2022. Semi-structured interviews were utilized to collect data until saturation was reached. The collected data were analyzed with the assistance of ATLAS.ti. The study’s results underscore the significance of incorporating epilepsy education into life skills curricula at the primary school level, as revealed by two prominent themes that emerged: first, the reasons provided by students for the integration of epilepsy education into life skills training, and second, the preferred teaching methodologies for epilepsy education within the life skills curriculum as identified by learners. Trustworthiness and ethical consideration were ensured. It is recommended that guidelines for epilepsy life skills should be developed to enhance the wellbeing and academic performance of learners with epilepsy in primary schools in Mpumalanga and Limpopo provinces.

A systematic review of the effectiveness of epilepsy education programs on knowledge, attitudes, and skills among primary school learners

“…Epilepsy education in schools may help diminish the stigma surrounding epilepsy and enhance the quality of life for individuals living with the condition (3). Such education may also empower people with epilepsy and their families to manage the condition more effectively and promote social and educational inclusion (3).…”

“…It is characterised by recurrent seizures brought on by improper brain electrical activity ( 1 ). Epilepsy has been documented to be more prevalent among the young generation, especially between birth and the age of 12 ( 2 , 3 ). Furthermore, these ages of children suffering from epilepsy are mostly learners who are found in primary schools.…”

“…This approach could potentially reduce the stigma experienced by PLWE, both from their peers and their perceptions. Furthermore, integrating epilepsy education in schools may enhance public awareness about epilepsy as knowledge spreads from teachers and students to the broader community ( 3 ). This could ultimately foster more positive attitudes and improve seizure management skills.…”

“…Epilepsy education in schools may help diminish the stigma surrounding epilepsy and enhance the quality of life for individuals living with the condition ( 3 ). Such education may also empower people with epilepsy and their families to manage the condition more effectively and promote social and educational inclusion ( 3 ). For children with epilepsy, education programs can help them understand their condition, recognise seizure symptoms, and know how to respond to a seizure.…”

Perspective Chapter: Stigma and Its Impact on People Living with Epilepsy in Rural Communities

“…Addressing the underlying factors contributing to stigma, such as cultural beliefs and misconceptions, can promote greater awareness, acceptance, and inclusivity within these communities [17]. Enhancing knowledge about epilepsy, its causes, and its management can help dispel myths and reduce the fear associated with the condition [15,18].…”