Packer et al . developed the six-week, community-based
EC course for adults experiencing fatigue secondary to
chronic illnesses.7 For this study, 12 certified occupational
therapists taught the 20 EC courses between
February 2002 and June 2003. Each course consisted of
six weeks of highly structured, two-hour classes as
described in detail by Packer et al .7 Each EC course had
7/10 participants per group and was taught in community
settings such as MS chapter offices, churches and public
libraries. This EC course was based on the theory of
psychoeducational group development and used a range
of pedagogical techniques including lectures, discussions,
long-term and short-term goal setting, practice activities
and homework activities to assist participants’ integration
of EC principles into their performance of everyday tasks.
The six sessions addressed the importance of rest throughout
the day, positive and effective communication, proper
body mechanics, ergonomic principles, modification of
the environment, changing standards, setting priorities,
activity analysis and modification, and living a balanced
lifestyle (see Appendix). The nature of the intervention
precluded any blinding of course instructors or participants.