Working with Students who have Epilepsy Epilepsy is a symptom of abnormal cerebral function that alters the state of consciousness. Epilepsy does not impair intellectual ability and needs not be a barrier to academic achievement. There is a number of Victoria s academic staff with epilepsy.
Epilepsy takes the form of recurring seizures.
A seizure is a temporary breakdown of the brain s communication system. Seizures vary from person to person, ranging from one or two seizures during a lifetime to several seizures a day. Seizures can range from small unnoticeable lapses in concentration to complete collapse, where assistance is required to ensure the safety of the person. This is a transient interruption in orderly thought processes, beginning and ending abruptly with no warning or sequel. Many such seizures can occur over the course of an hour.