Samenvatting

This report looks at the SEIN Course on Clinical Epileptology. This is an annual two-week course, which has been running since 2010. It offers young doctors with an interest in epilepsy, from low- and middle-income countries, the opportunity to follow a short, but practical and compact training in clinical epileptology, which is not available in their own countries. During the past three years, 52 students from 15 countries have participated in the course, and it has consistently received high ratings from the students. These evaluations were collected at the end of each course, but no other form of follow-up has been undertaken. It was not clear if the high ratings were indicative of the quality of the course, if the course was efective and whether the investment was worthwhile.
Literature review was carried out with regards to corporate communication, corporate identity and reputation, cultural dimensions, intercultural communication, consumer behaviour and measuring effects. Furthermore, surveys were also distributed to past-students, their employers and course sponsors to determine whether the aim of the course – being able to apply their newfound knowledge and expertise in their own clinical setting – was being achieved.
It can be concluded that the course is successful, both in terms of impact and reputation for SEIN as an expertise centre. With regards to the high ratings, these are in part due to the quality of the course programmes, but are also influenced somewhat by the cultural dimensions of the students, in which they are not quick to criticise the host or question authority. The research shows that the course is organised in an effective way in order to maximise student participation, putting them at ease and passing on knowledge. Students, employers and course sponsors are positive about the course. The students have been able to put this new knowledge into practice and been able to contribute towards improving the care of people with epilepsy in their own countries.
Sufficient income to cover the costs, however, remains a vital condition for continuing to organise the course. The course is heavily reliant on sponsorship and currently any deficit is covered by SEIN. So, whilst it can be said that the course is ‘measuring up’ and contributing to SEIN’s international reputation, the financial pressure to organise the course is one which must not be underestimated.
The successful results of the course should be communicated to all stakeholders, using the various tools as indicated in the communication plan. This way, SEIN will not only ensure a continued relationship with the stakeholders involved, which is positive for maintaining the reputation as an expertise centre, it is hoped this will also encourage the current sponsors to continue with their support, as well as provide opportunities for sourcing more sponsorship opportunities.