Learning and Living Diabetes: Development of a College Diabetes Seminar Course

Abstract

For students pursuing a college degree in a health-related field, understanding the treatment and self-management of a chronic health condition may contribute to a more favorable educational outcome through use of active learning strategies such as case studies and immersion experiences.1,2 For example, Sandstrom1 described the use of three case studies that presented vignettes and student exercises about living with diabetes, management of the disease under various complex situations, and diabetes-related decision-making. The author found that completion of the course gave nursing students a clearer understanding of the disease being studied, its effect on clients, and various client needs and responses to the disease. Self-management of diabetes during the transition from high school to college can be difficult. For example, Mellinger3 identified situations that students with chronic health problems such as diabetes face as they prepare for and adjust to life at college. In preparation for college, the identification of a primary care provider in the new location was crucial, as was the transfer of medical records to that provider and coordination of health insurance plan details. Mellinger recommended that students, on arrival at college, disclose their chronic condition to a roommate or hall advisor and walk through the cafeteria, encouraging the posting of nutritional information. The on-campus resources of the federally mandated disability center may also be a valuable resource. An appointment with a health care provider at the student health center should be made shortly after arrival on campus, and students should also identify emergency health services, pharmacies, and support groups. Although immersion experiences for college students have been reported in the literature, there is little in the literature about teaching health professional students specifically about this difficult transition period for management of the disease. Additionally, little is known about possible peer advocacy …