Date of Award

Fall 2012

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

College of Education, Department of Teacher Education

First Advisor

Mojdeh Bayat, Ph.D.

Comments

While medical progress has incited great change in the epidemiology of child health

in the United States, chronic illness now accounts for the majority of pediatric

hospitalizations, posing a major challenge to educators in regards to the availability

and provision of academic services. The purpose of this qualitative self-study is to

better understand the effects of educational services on the development of children

with chronic illness during long-term hospitalizations. Research consists of an

examination of and reflection on the intersection of Education and Healthcare in the

pediatric hospital environment and the population of students caught in its crossfire.

Future implications suggest a need for the development and implementation of

pediatric hospital-based school service programs throughout the United States, as

well as a reconsideration of our prioritization of care. An attempt was made to

identify resources to highlight and develop recommendations for improvement in

communication, outreach, and advocacy efforts.

Keywords: Chronic Illness, Pediatric Health, Hospital School, Special Education,

Early Childhood Education

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