Utilising technology to connect the hospital and the classroom: Maintaining connections using tablet computers and a 'Presence' App

Abstract

Reduced school attendance is a recognised risk factor for poorer outcomes both educationally and across a wide range of social, economic and personal indicators throughout life. Children and young people with chronic health conditions often have poor or disrupted records of school attendance due to periods of hospitalisation and time spent recuperating at home. Keeping students with health conditions connected to school and learning is critical to avoid a trajectory of school absence, disengagement from schoolwork and peers, reduced achievement in education and early school leaving. This paper reports on a research project conducted in Victoria, Australia, to connect 7-12 year old hospitalis..