“Understanding the nature and causes of very preterm children’s mathematics learning difficulties: From evidence to intervention”, Professor Samantha Johnson

The cognitive and behavioural sequelae associated with very preterm birth, before 32 weeks of gestation, have a profound impact on a child’s performance and integration at school. As such, children born very preterm have poorer academic attainment and a greater need for special educational provision than children born at term. Of all the subjects studied at school, very preterm children have greatest difficulties with mathematics and are at high risk for learning difficulties in this area. As yet, the nature and causes of these difficulties are poorly understood and it is not clear what the best approach to intervention should be. In this presentation I will discuss the growing need to improve very preterm children’s performance at school and will present data from recent studies which have implications for intervention efforts. I will also outline how we are building on the evidence base to develop a school-based intervention for teachers of very preterm children.

Professor Samantha Johnson, Developmental Psychologist, University of Leicester

Host: Professor Dieter Wolke

3.30pm Refreshments in Common Roon

4pm Talk