Teachers supporting learners with diabetes: a psycho-educational perspective

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to develop a set of guidelines to enable teachers to support children with diabetes. The aspects of support include the physical, emotional, social and cognitive aspects that have an effect on a child with diabetes. A literature study and an empirical investigation were undertaken to investigate which factors would enable teachers to become better sources of support in school. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with teachers to determine their knowledge about diabetes. Parents who have children with diabetes were also interviewed to determine what support they required from teachers. The results of the study culminated in a set of guidelines for teachers.