Open Courses

Online Course: UDL– Participant & Facilitator Training
2022-10-03 - 2022-12-12
The National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education are delighted to announce that the fully online Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Open Course will be running this October 2022 in partnership with AHEAD and UCD Access & Lifelong Learning.
Information Session: On the 30th of May, AHEAD, held a UDL Badge Information Session .
Key Points:
What: Free 10 week introductory course on Universal Design for Learning running groups simultaneously for Irish HE and FET staff.
Available to: Staff currently working in Higher Education or Further Education and Training in the Republic of Ireland. Places allocated on a first come first served basis. Participants must have some teaching activity planned during week 5-9 (1 November – 5 December) that they can work on as part of the UDL Redesign Activity (can be individual class, group of classes, training session or assignment – flexible).
When: The course runs from 3 October – 11 Dec 2022. General registration opens 22 August 2022 and the link will be in Eventbrite – first come, first served. Register your interest for the course at the end of this page. We will notify you by email when general registration is open.
Registration
Registration is now open for the Digital Badge for Universal Design in Teaching and Learning. Registration will be open until September 20th or until all places are filled.

Online Course: Engaged Research & Innovation For Societal Impact: Building Capacity Across Ireland
2023-01-30 - 2023-03-10
The National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education are delighted to announce that the fully online Open Course for Engaged Research & Innovation For Societal Impact: Building Capacity Across Ireland will run in January 2023. This course has been developed in partnership by Campus Engage, the Irish Universities Association, and the Higher Education Authority .
Engaged research describes a wide range of rigorous research approaches and methodologies that share a common interest in collaborative engagement with research stakeholders and aims to improve, understand, or investigate an issue of public interest or concern, including societal challenges. Engaged research is advanced with partners rather than for them.
Download Brochure
Course Breakdown by Week
Pre-Course Content
Introduction to the course, the virtual learning environment and your course colleagues.
Week 1: Engaged Research and Innovation for Societal Impact
Learn how to respond to engagement, involvement, and impact criteria across EU Horizon Europe and Irish funding agency calls.
Week 2: Innovative Approaches to Realising Research Impact
Learn how to bring research relevant stakeholders together to plan for research impact and better communicate research outcomes to research users.
Week 3: Methodological Approaches for Engaging Diverse Stakeholders
Identify and map stakeholders appropriate to the stage of the research, then choose appropriate engaged research methods.
Week 4: Mobilising Research into Policy and Practice
Understand how to mobilise knowledge for public policy and engage with policymakers.
Week 5: Monitoring and Evaluating Research Outcomes
Undertake research evaluation to demonstrate research impact and share authentic impact stories.
Week 6: Campus Engage Facilitator Training
Good practice on facilitating Engaged Research for Societal Impact capacity-building workshops and claiming your NFETL Digital Badge.
Badging Criteria
This course will be facilitated over a six-week period. To complete this badge, you will need to commit to 30 learner hours. You will be required to attend live weekly webinars on a Friday, between 1pm and 2.30pm, beginning January 30 and finishing on March 10. Weekly criteria are as follows:

Self-Paced Learning:

Recorded presentations, publications, and a short assignment [1.5-hours of content each week]

Peer-to-Peer Learning:

Peer-to-peer learning based on the week’s topic and assignment [1-hour of peer learning each week]

Facilitated Friday Webinar:

Drawing together leaders in Engaged Research for Societal Impact, these facilitated workshops present case studies to demonstrate what works, build skills, and problem solve with attendees to address their work-place challenges [1.5-hours for the live webinar each week]

Campus Engage Facilitator Training:

Facilitated course during week six to advance good practice in facilitation so that attendees can feel confident in their abilities to share good practice and advance engaged research for societal impact [6-hours of facilitator training in Week 6]
Expression of Interest
Shortlisting may apply. Applications will be accepted until 12 December 2022. Applicants will be notified as to whether their EOI has been accepted in advance of 30 January 2023.
For more information, email info@campusengage.ie

Online Course: Education for Sustainability
2023-02-08
The National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education are delighted to announce that the fully online Open Course, Education for Sustainability, will run from February 2023. This course has been developed in partnership with Atlantic Technological University, Dublin City University, University College Cork and Technological University Dublin.
This free 6 week course is available to all staff currently working in Higher Education in the Republic of Ireland, subject to availability of places. Additional facilitator training is included so that you can become a facilitator of this course, to run it in your own institution, and as part of a national Education for Sustainability network. A further commitment of five learner hours will be required for the facilitator add-on, in addition to attendance at two extra webinars over 2 weeks.
Course Breakdown by Week
Week 1 Setting Education for Sustainability in context, 6 Feb. 2023
Online Workshop on 8 Feb. 2023, 12.00-14.00, facilitated by Dr. Cormac McMahon and Dr. Olivia Freeman (TU Dublin)
Week 2 Introducing Education for Sustainability Concepts, Principles, and Practices, 13 Feb. 2023
Online Workshop on 15 Feb. 2023, 12.00-14.00, facilitated by Dr. Dermot O’Donovan (ATU)
Week 3 Embodying Sustainability Values, 20 Feb. 2023
Online Workshop on 22 Feb. 2023, 12.00-14.00, facilitated by Dr. Maria Kirrane (UCC)
Week 4 Embracing Complexity in Sustainability, 27 Feb. 2023
Online Workshop on 01 March 2023, 12.00-14.00, facilitated by Dr. John Scahill (ATU)
Week 5 Envisioning Sustainable Futures, 6 March 2023
Online Workshop on 08 March 2023, 12.00-14.00, facilitated by Professor Charlotte Holland (DCU)
Week 6 Acting for Sustainability, 13 March 2023
Online Workshop on 15 March 2023, 12.00-14.00, facilitated by Dr. Mark Kelly (ATU)
Facilitator Add-On
Week 7 Facilitator Training Part 1, 20 March 2023
Online Workshop on 22 March 2023, 12.00-14.00, facilitated by Dr. Mark Kelly (ATU)
Week 8 Facilitator Training Part 2, 27 March 2023
Online Workshop on 29 March 2023, 12.00-14.00, facilitated by Dr. Mark Kelly (ATU)
Expression of Interest
Registration is now open for the Open Course in Education for Sustainability. Spaces are limited and shortlisting may apply. Registration will be open until 27 January 2023 or until all places are filled.
The Open Course will be facilitator-led. Additional facilitator training is included so that you can later facilitate your own open course as part of a national Education for Sustainability network.
For more information, email mark.kelly@atu.ie
This call is now closed

Online Course: Fostering Excellence in Research Led Entrepreneurship Education Digital Badge
2023-04-14 - 2023-05-19
The National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education are delighted to announce that the fully online Open Course, Fostering Excellence in Research Led Entrepreneurship Education, will run from April 2023. This course has been developed in partnership with Munster Technological University (MTU).
MTU fosters excellence through research led entrepreneurship education. MTU’s Hincks Centre for Entrepreneurship Excellence has designed this course specifically for entrepreneurship educators in higher education. This free, online, self-directed course with a digital badge award is funded by the National Forum.
Overview
This course aims to foster excellence in entrepreneurship education by guiding educators with the most effective and considered teaching and assessment methods. It draws on the National Entrepreneurship Assessment Review 2 from 2021, the 2016 EntreComp competence framework, and the latest research in the field.
Entrepreneurship is recognised as a key driver positively influencing economic growth and recovery as well as improved standards of living within the economy. Fostering Entrepreneurship not only prepares and educates individuals to identify and capitalise on opportunities but also empowers them to be flexible in adapting to changing societies, economies allowing individuals to become more innovative and financially independent.
Higher education has a crucial role in fostering an entrepreneurial mindset, which benefits individuals, organisations, communities, and the environment. This course helps participants understand the principles and practices of entrepreneurship education, integrate effective techniques and tools, and enhance their assessment practices for better learning outcomes.
Participants can also join a network of entrepreneurship educators to exchange ideas and collaborate. By completing this course, participants can contribute to promoting entrepreneurship education excellence and promoting economic growth and sustainability.
Who is it for?
The programme will suit early-stage entrepreneurship educators and those established educators looking for new ideas, resources and opportunity to network. The programme will also suit staff who support students in entrepreneurial learning and endeavours. Participants will also have the option to be part of a growing network of entrepreneurship educators.
What is involved?
The course is online and is built around a series of videos, solo and group activities, a selection of academic and grey literature reading materials, and facilitated group activities, discussions, and reflections. To complete the course and gain the nationally recognised digital badge, you will need to commit to a total of approximately 25 learner hours, 5 online discussion sessions and spread over 6 weeks.
The course will start with a half hour introductory session on Friday the 14th April at 14:00 and will conclude on Friday the 19th May from 14:00 – 15:00. During this time, participants will guide themselves through each module, after each module, participants will meet in their triad groups which offers an opportunity for conversation, sharing ideas & experiences. After triad discussions, participants will meet online for a facilitated discussion to talk through the material from the previous session discussed in those triads.
Why should you take this course?
Entrepreneurship is recognised as a key driver positively influencing economic growth and recovery as well as improved standards of living within the economy. Fostering Entrepreneurship not only prepares and educates individuals to identify and capitalise on opportunities but also empowers them to be flexible in adapting to changing societies, economies allowing individuals to become more innovative and financially independent.
Nowadays Higher Education plays a key part in supporting learners to develop an entrepreneurial mindset that can play a major role in developing these entrepreneurial capabilities that not only benefit the individual and the economy but organisations, communities and the environment.
Participants of the course will understand the key elements of developing the entrepreneurial mindset, value creation and principles related to the purpose and practice of entrepreneurship education (EE). Participants will be able to utilise to integrate techniques and tools into their course work for greater learning outcomes and more effective assessment practices. WE also offer participants the opportunity to join a network of entrepreneurship educators.
Programme Learning Outcomes

Incorporate entrepreneurship education into the curricula for greater impact, capability building and learner engagement
Implement evaluation strategies for entrepreneurship education through relevant assessment methods
Appreciate interdisciplinary, social entrepreneurship education and the entrepreneurial mindset
Demonstrate an understanding of the evolving social demands linked with entrepreneurship education and approaches to deal with the changing socio-economic environment of today

You will learn

How to facilitate, integrate and assess entrepreneurship education through examining the purpose and practice of entrepreneurship education in all disciplines eg. science, technology, engineering, arts and maths education (STEAM)
The entrepreneurial mindset and frameworks and how it is facilitated through education and the relevance of such a mindset in today’s context
To enhance entrepreneurship education through useful resources, reflection and evaluation on specific competencies to incorporate into learning/teaching
The relevance in supporting social and entrepreneurship education and enterprise in a modern and evolving society that demands such knowledge
The most recent and relevant entrepreneurship education theories in the literature

Sessions
Session 1: Introductory: Introduce the course and each other. Precursor to session 2
Session 2: The What, Why and How of Entrepreneurship and Entrepreneurship Education
Session 3: Entrepreneurial Competencies and Mindsets
Session 4: Responsible Entrepreneurship and Sustainability in Entrepreneurship
Session 5: Key Considerations and Methods in Assessing Entrepreneurship Education
Course details
Learn online as part of a group at your own pace.

Participants engage with each online module in a self-directed manner and can use materials to support their own teaching
Participants will meet in triad online to reflect on their learnings and will be provided with topics for discussion
Facilitators will lead 4 x 1 hour online sessions based on specific topics related to the previous module
The course requires a commitment of approximately 25 learner hours
It will take place over 6 weeks in total
Starting: Friday 14th of April @ 14:00 – 14:30
Second introductory session on Tuesday the 18th of April @ 14:00-14.30 (for participants who are unable to take part in the first introductory session)
Concluding: Friday 19th of May @ 14:00 – 15:00
Closing date for applications: 7th of April 2023
Email enquiries to HincksCentre@mtu.ie

Expression of Interest
Registration is now closed for the Open Course in Fostering Excellence in Research Led Entrepreneurship Education. For more information, email HincksCentre@mtu.ie.

Online Course: Recognition of Prior Learning
2023-04-17 - 2023-06-12
The National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education are delighted to announce that the fully online Open Course, Recognition of Prior Learning, will run from April 2023. This course has been developed in partnership with the Recognition of Prior Learning in Higher Education Project, a HCI Pillar 3 initiative, see www.priorlearning.ie for more details.
This free 6 week course is available to all staff currently working in tertiary education in the Republic of Ireland, subject to availability of places. Additional facilitator training is included so that you can become a facilitator of this course and run it in your own institution. A further commitment of five learner hours will be required for the facilitator add-on, in addition to attendance at two extra webinars over 2 weeks.
Course Schedule

RPL Digital Badge Schedule

Wk beginning
Week
Webinar
Facilitator

17.04.23
Week 1
Wednesday 9.30am – 11.00am
Dr Ciara Staunton

24.04.23
Week 2
Wednesday 9.30am – 11.00am
Dr Ciara Staunton

08.05.23
Week 3
Wednesday 9.30am – 11.00am
Dr Ciara Staunton

15.05.23
Week 4
Wednesday 9.30am – 11.00am
Dr Ciara Staunton

22.05.23
Week 5
Wednesday 9.30am – 11.00am
Dr Ciara Staunton

29.05.23
Week 6
Wednesday 9.30am – 11.00am
Dr Ciara Staunton

06.06.23
Week 7 (Facilitator Badge)
Wednesday 9.30am – 11.00am
Dr Ciara Staunton

12.06.23
Week 8 (Facilitator Badge)
Wednesday 9.30am – 11.00am
Dr Ciara Staunton

Learning Outcomes

Explain the concept of RPL and reflect on its application within their own setting;
Reflect on the potential impact of RPL for an institution, its staff and students;
Identify existing policies and consider their alignment with practice;
Analyse the relationship between programme and module learning outcomes and the RPL candidate.

Learning Activities

Activity
Per week
Six Weeks

Live Webinar
90 min
9 hours

Triad meeting
60 min
6 hours

Independent learning
100 min
10 hours

Total
250 min
25 hours

Content

Indicative content
Facilitator/Guest speaker

RPL – Setting the Scene
RPL – The European Context
RPL – The Irish Context
RPL – Processes e.g. assessment
RPL – Curriculum Design
RPL – Case studies
Dr Ciara Staunton; guest speakers (TBC)

Facilitator’s Badge
Dr Ciara Staunton
Purpose: Develop capacity for delivery of Digital Badge by institution staff for institution staff

Expression of Interest
Registration is now closed (31 March 2023).
For more information, email Dr Ciara Staunton – c.staunton@ucc.ie (Facilitator) or Dr Clare Walsh clare.walsh@thea.ie (RPL in HE Project). See www.priorlearning.ie for more information.

Online Course: Recognition of Prior Learning (October 2023)
2023-10-04
The National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education are delighted to announce that the fully online Open Course, Recognition of Prior Learning, will run from October 2023. This course has been developed in partnership with the Recognition of Prior Learning in Higher Education Project, a HCI Pillar 3 initiative, see www.priorlearning.ie for more details.
This free 6 week course is available to all staff currently working in tertiary education in the Republic of Ireland, subject to availability of places. Additional facilitator training is included so that you can become a facilitator of this course and run it in your own institution. A further commitment of five learner hours will be required for the facilitator add-on, in addition to attendance at two extra webinars over 2 weeks.
Course Schedule

RPL Digital Badge Schedule

Date
Week
Webinar
Facilitator

04.10.23
Week 1
Wednesday 9.30am – 11.00am
Dr Ciara Staunton

11.10.23
Week 2
Wednesday 9.30am – 11.00am
Dr Ciara Staunton

18.10.23
Week 3
Wednesday 9.30am – 11.00am
Dr Ciara Staunton

25.10.23
Week 4
Wednesday 9.30am – 11.00am
Dr Ciara Staunton

BREAK

15.11.23
Week 5
Wednesday 9.30am – 11.00am
Dr Ciara Staunton

22.11.23
Week 6
Wednesday 9.30am – 11.00am
Dr Ciara Staunton

29.11.23
Week 7 (Facilitator Badge)
Wednesday 9.30am – 10.30am
Dr Ciara Staunton

06.12.23
Week 8 (Facilitator Badge)
Wednesday 9.30am – 10.30am
Dr Ciara Staunton

Learning Outcomes

Explain the concept of RPL and reflect on its application within their own setting;
Reflect on the potential impact of RPL for an institution, its staff and students;
Identify existing policies and consider their alignment with practice;
Analyse the relationship between programme and module learning outcomes and the RPL candidate.

Learning Activities

Activity
Per week
Six Weeks

Live Webinar
90 min
9 hours

Triad meeting
60 min
6 hours

Independent learning
100 min
10 hours

Total
250 min
25 hours

Content

Indicative content
Facilitator/Guest speaker

RPL – Setting the Scene
RPL – Enabling Success
RPL – Conceptual Frameworks
RPL – The Learner Voice
RPL – Practical Approaches
RPL – The Irish Context/Policies
Dr Ciara Staunton; guest speakers (TBC)

Facilitator’s Badge
Dr Ciara Staunton
Purpose: Develop capacity for delivery of Digital Badge by institution staff for institution staff

Expression of Interest
Registration is now closed.
For more information, email Dr Ciara Staunton – c.staunton@ucc.ie (Facilitator) or Dr Clare Walsh clare.walsh@thea.ie (RPL in HE Project). See www.priorlearning.ie for more information.

Online Course: Recognition of Prior Learning (April 2024)
2024-04-10 - 2024-07-08
The National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education are delighted to announce that the fully online Open Course, Recognition of Prior Learning, will run from April 2024. This course has been developed in partnership with the Recognition of Prior Learning in Higher Education Project, a HCI Pillar 3 initiative, see www.priorlearning.ie for more details.
This free 6 week course is available to all staff currently working in tertiary education in the Republic of Ireland, subject to availability of places. Additional facilitator training is included so that you can become a facilitator of this course and run it in your own institution. A further commitment of five learner hours will be required for the facilitator add-on, in addition to attendance at two extra webinars over 2 weeks.
Course Schedule

RPL Digital Badge Schedule

Date
Week
Webinar
Facilitator

10.04.24
Week 1
Wednesday 9.30am – 11.00am
Dr Ciara Staunton

17.04.24
Week 2
Wednesday 9.30am – 11.00am
Dr Ciara Staunton

24.04.24
Week 3
Wednesday 9.30am – 11.00am
Dr Ciara Staunton

01.05.24
Week 4
Wednesday 9.30am – 11.00am
Dr Ciara Staunton

BREAK

15.05.24
Week 5
Wednesday 9.30am – 11.00am
Dr Ciara Staunton

22.05.24
Week 6
Wednesday 9.30am – 11.00am
Dr Ciara Staunton

29.05.24
Week 7 (Facilitator Badge)
Wednesday 9.30am – 10.30am
Dr Ciara Staunton

05.06.24
Week 8 (Facilitator Badge)
Wednesday 9.30am – 10.30am
Dr Ciara Staunton

Learning Outcomes

Explain the concept of RPL and reflect on its application within their own setting;
Reflect on the potential impact of RPL for an institution, its staff and students;
Identify existing policies and consider their alignment with practice;
Analyse the relationship between programme and module learning outcomes and the RPL candidate.

Learning Activities

Activity
Per week
Six Weeks

Live Webinar
90 min
9 hours

Triad meeting
60 min
6 hours

Independent learning
100 min
10 hours

Total
250 min
25 hours

Content

Indicative content
Facilitator/Guest speaker

RPL – Setting the Scene
RPL – Enabling Success
RPL – Conceptual Frameworks
RPL – The Learner Voice
RPL – Practical Approaches
RPL – The Irish Context/Policies
Dr Ciara Staunton; guest speakers (TBC)

Facilitator’s Badge
Dr Ciara Staunton
Purpose: Develop capacity for delivery of Digital Badge by institution staff for institution staff

Expression of Interest
For more information, email Dr Ciara Staunton – c.staunton@ucc.ie (Facilitator) or Dr Clare Walsh clare.walsh@thea.ie (RPL in HE Project). See www.priorlearning.ie for more information.
Expressions of interest for this Open Course are now closed.

Online course: Enabling Student Volunteering (June 2024)
2024-06-05 11:00 - 2024-07-18 13:00 (Europe/Dublin)
The National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education are delighted to announce that the fully online Open Course, Enabling Student Volunteering, will run from June 2024. This course has been developed in partnership with Student Volunteer Ireland, see www.studentvolunteer.ie for more details.
This free 4-week course is available to all staff currently working in tertiary education in the Republic of Ireland, subject to availability of places. Additional facilitator training is included so that you can become a facilitator of this course and run it in your own institution. A further commitment of five learner hours will be required for the facilitator add-on, in addition to attendance at two extra webinars over 2 weeks.
Course Schedule

Enabling Student Volunteering Badge Schedule

Date
Week
Webinar
Facilitator

05.06.24
Week 1
Wednesday 11am – 1pm
Dr Lorraine Tansey

12.06.24
Week 2
Wednesday 11am – 1pm
Dr Lorraine Tansey

19.06.24
Week 3
Wednesday 11am – 1pm
Dr Lorraine Tansey

26.06.24
Week 4
Wednesday 11am – 1pm
Dr Lorraine Tansey

BREAK

11.07.24
Week 5 (Facilitator Badge)
Wednesday 11am – 1pm
Dr Lorraine Tansey

18.07.24
Week 6 (Facilitator Badge)
Wednesday 11am – 1pm
Dr Lorraine Tansey

Learning Outcomes

Explain the concept of student volunteer management and reflect on its application within their own setting;
Reflect on the potential impact of university-community engagement for an institution, its staff and students;
Identify existing policies and consider their alignment with practice;
Analyse and articulate your student volunteering initiatives to the Student Volunteer Ireland website to share experiences.

Learning Activities
Online portfolio creation75 min5 hours

Activity
Per week
Six Weeks

Live Webinar
120 min
8 hours

Triad meeting
60 min
4 hours

Independent learning
120 min
8 hours

Total
250 min
25 hours

Content

Indicative content
Facilitator/Guest speaker

RPL – Setting the Scene
SV – Conceptual Frameworks
SV – International Volunteering
SV – Practical Approaches
SV – The Irish Context/Policies
Dr Lorraine Tansey; guest speakers from Student Volunteer Ireland, Volunteer Ireland; SpunOut.ie; YSI; Localise; Gaisce; Comhlámh; STAND

Facilitator’s Badge
Dr Lorraine Tansey
Purpose: Develop capacity for delivery of Digital Badge by institution staff for institution staff

Expression of Interest
For more information, email Dr Lorraine Tansey – Lorraine.Tansey@ul.ie.
Registration is now closed.

Online course: Advancing Excellence in Evidence-Based Entrepreneurship Education (September 2024)
2024-09-20 - 2024-11-08
The National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education are delighted to announce that the fully online Open Course Advancing Excellence in Evidence-Based Entrepreneurship Education will run from September 2024. This course has been developed in partnership with MTU’s Hincks Centre for Entrepreneurship Excellence.
This free 7 week course is available to all staff currently working in tertiary education in the Republic of Ireland, subject to availability of places. Additional facilitator training is included so that you can become a facilitator of this course and run it in your own institution. A further commitment of five learner hours will be required for the facilitator add-on, in addition to attendance at two extra webinars over 2 weeks.
Course Schedule

Advancing Excellence Schedule

Date
Week
Webinar
Facilitator

20.09.24 or 24/09/2024
Week 1
Friday 14:00-14:30 or
Tuesday 14:00-14:30
Ana Cruz García

27.09.24
Week 2
Friday 14:00-15:00
Ana Cruz García

04.10.24
Week 3
Friday 14:00-15:00
Ana Cruz García & Niall O’Leary

11.10.24
Week 4
Friday 14:00-15:00
Ana Cruz García & Helen McGuirk

18.10.24
Week 5
Friday 14:00-15:00
Ana Cruz García & Wei Xiong

25.10.24
Week 6
Friday 14:00-15:00
Ana Cruz García & Fiacre Muller

08.11.24
Week 7
Friday 14:00-15:00
Ana Cruz García & Rebecca Robinson

Learning Outcomes

Reflect on how entrepreneurship practices in different topics can be introduced in an educational context and how they can be best assessed.
Build knowledge of other non-traditional types of entrepreneurs (women, young, seniors), diverse industries/sectors (arts, environmental sciences…) and methods of validating entrepreneurship.
Critically assess how the research on the different entrepreneurship forms can enrich entrepreneurship educational practices.

Learning Activities

Activity
Per week
Seven Weeks

Online meeting
60 min
6 hours

Triad meeting
60 min
6 hours

Directed and independent learning
120 min
12 hours

Total
250 min
24 hours

& standalone introduction (60 mins)

25 hours

Content

Indicative content
Facilitator/Guest speaker

Introduction and triad allocation
Ana Cruz Garcia

Inclusive Entrepreneurial Ecosystems
Ana Cruz Garcia

Increasing success rates with improved decision making tools
Ana Cruz García & Niall O’Leary

Opportunities in the Silver Economies
Ana Cruz García & Helen McGuirk

Entrepreneurship in the Marine Sector
Ana Cruz García & Wei Xiong

Entrepreneurship for Creative Industries
Ana Cruz García & Fiacre Muller

Youth Entrepreneurship
Ana Cruz García & Rebecca Robinson

Registration
Registration is closed.
For more information, email Dr Ana Cruz Garcia – ana.cruzgarcia@mtu.ie.

Online courses - Supporting a Whole Campus approach to a Healthy Campus (September 2024)
2024-09-30 08:00 - 2024-12-06 17:00 UTC
The National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education are delighted to announce that the fully online Open Course Supporting a Whole Campus Approach to a Healthy Campus will run from September 2024.
This free 6 week course is available to all staff currently working in tertiary education in the Republic of Ireland, subject to availability of places. Additional facilitator training is included so that you can become a facilitator of this course and run it in your own institution. A further commitment of three additional sessions will be required for the facilitator add-on.
Course Schedule

Supporting a Whole Campus approach to a Healthy Campus

Dates and Times
Material
Step
Facilitator

September 30th
Welcome email
Material for step 1 released
All
1
Cuisle Forde and Katerina Drakos

October 4th 1-2 pm
Orientation webinar
Peer triads established
All
Cuisle Forde and Katerina Drakos

October 9th at 1 pm
Step 1 Call to action due for submission
1
Cuisle Forde and Katerina Drakos

October 11th 1-2 pm
Step 1 Live webinar
Step 2 material released
1
Cuisle Forde and Katerina Drakos

October 16th at 12pm
Step 2 Call to action due for submission
2
Caroline Mahon/Dr Celine Murrin/Catherine Darker

October 18th 1-2pm
Step 2 Live webinar
Step 3 material released
2
Caroline Mahon/Dr Celine Murrin/Catherine Darker

October 23rd at 12pm
Step 3 Call to action due for submission
3
Catherine Norton

October 25th 1-2pm
Step 3 Live webinar
Step 4 material released
3
Catherine Norton/
Fabian Sweeney

October 30th at 12pm
Step 4 Call to action due for submission
4
Martina Mullin and Cuisle Forde

November 1st 1-2pm
Step 4 Live webinar
Step 5 material released
4
Martina Mullin and Cuisle Forde

November 6th at 12pm
Step 5 Call to action due for submission
5
Sharon Ferguson and Yvonne Kennedy

November 8th 1-2pm
Step 5 Live webinar
Step 6 material released
5
Sharon Ferguson and Yvonne Kennedy

November 13th at 12pm
Step 6 Call to action due for submission
6
Cuisle Forde and Katerina Drakos

November 15th 1-2pm
Step 6 Live webinar
Facilitator material released
6
Cuisle Forde and Katerina Drakos

November 22nd 1-2pm
Facilitator 1 live webinar
F1
Cuisle Forde and Katerina Drakos

November 29th 1-2pm
Facilitator 2 live webinar
F2
Cuisle Forde and Katerina Drakos

December 6th 1-2pm
Facilitator 3 live webinar
F3
Cuisle Forde and Katerina Drakos

Learning Outcomes

Know why being a “health-promoting campus” matters
Understand the Okanagan Charter
Articulate how the campus physical and social environment plays a role in becoming a health-promoting campus?
Advocate for a collective impact framework, campus master plans, and policies for creating well-being in settings, communities, and individuals.

Learning Activities

Activity – Student Training
Per week
Seven Weeks

Self-directed learning via material on learning platform (primarily case studies, asynchronous)
60 min
6 hours

Synchronous material (live webinar and other presentation forms on the platform)
90 min
9 hours

Peer learning in Triads (call to action)
60 min
6 hours

Independent learning
30 min
3 hours

Open Course Orientation
60 min
1 hours

Total

25 hours

Activity – Facilitator Training
Per week
Seven Weeks

Self-directed learning via material on learning platform (primarily case studies, asynchronous)
60 min
3 hours

Synchronous material (live webinar and other presentation forms on the platform)
90 min
4.5 hours

Peer learning in Triads (call to action)
60 min
3 hours

Total

10.5 hours

Content

Indicative content
Facilitator/Guest speaker

What is healthy campus and why is it important
Cuisle Forde and Katerina Drakos

Evidence
Caroline Mahon, Celine Murrin and Catherine Darker

Common needs
Catherine Norton

Plan for success
Martina Mullin and Fabian Sweeney

Wheels in motion
Sharon Fergusen and Yvonne Kennedy

Summary
Cuisle Forde and Katerina Drakos

Registration
Registrations are now closed
For more information, email Dr Cuisle Forde – c.forde@tcd.ie.

Online Course: Recognition of Prior Learning (October 2024)
2024-10-02 09:30 - 2024-12-04 10:30 UTC
The National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education are delighted to announce that the fully online Open Course, Recognition of Prior Learning, will run from October 2024. This course has been developed in partnership with the Recognition of Prior Learning in Higher Education Project, a HCI Pillar 3 initiative, see www.priorlearning.ie for more details.
This free 6 week course is available to all staff currently working in tertiary education in the Republic of Ireland, subject to availability of places. Additional facilitator training is included so that you can become a facilitator of this course and run it in your own institution. A further commitment of five learner hours will be required for the facilitator add-on, in addition to attendance at two extra webinars over 2 weeks.
Course Schedule

Confirmed RPL Digital Badge Dates Autumn 2024

Week
Date
Time
Topic
Facilitator

Week 1
02.10.24
9.30am – 11.00am
Setting the Scene
Dr Ciara Staunton/TBC

Week 2
09.10.24
9.30am – 11.00am
Enabling Success
Dr Ciara Staunton/TBC

Week 3
16.10.24
9.30am – 11.00am
Conceptual Frameworks
Dr Ciara Staunton/TBC

Week 4
23.10.24
9.30am – 11.00am
The Learner Voice
Dr Ciara Staunton/TBC

BREAK

Week 5
06.11.24
9.30am – 11.00am
Practical Approaches
Dr Ciara Staunton/TBC

Week 6
13.11.24
9.30am – 11.00am
The Irish Context/Policies
Dr Ciara Staunton/TBC

BREAK

Week 7
27.11.24
9.30am – 10.30am
Facilitator Badge
Dr Ciara Staunton

Week 8
04.12.24
9.30am – 10.30am
Facilitator Badge
Dr Ciara Staunton

Learning Outcomes

Explain the concept of RPL and reflect on its application within their own setting;
Reflect on the potential impact of RPL for an institution, its staff and students;
Identify existing policies and consider their alignment with practice;
Analyse the relationship between programme and module learning outcomes and the RPL candidate.

Learning Activities

Activity
Per week
Six Weeks

Live Webinar
90 min
9 hours

Triad meeting
60 min
6 hours

Independent learning
100 min
10 hours

Total
250 min
25 hours

Content

Indicative content
Facilitator/Guest speaker

RPL – Setting the Scene
RPL – Enabling Success
RPL – Conceptual Frameworks
RPL – The Learner Voice
RPL – Practical Approaches
RPL – The Irish Context/Policies
Dr Ciara Staunton; guest speakers (TBC)

Facilitator’s Badge
Dr Ciara Staunton
Purpose: Develop capacity for delivery of Digital Badge by institution staff for institution staff

Registration
Registration is closed.
For more information, email Dr Ciara Staunton – c.staunton@ucc.ie (Facilitator) or Dr Clare Walsh clare.walsh@thea.ie (RPL in HE Project). See www.priorlearning.ie for more information.

Online course: Cybersecurity Awareness for Teaching and Learning in Higher Education (October 2024)
2024-10-04 08:00 - 2024-11-15 17:00 UTC
The National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education are delighted to announce that the fully online Open Course Cybersecurity Awareness for Teaching and Learning in Higher Education will run from October 2024.
This free 7 week course is available to all staff currently working in tertiary education in the Republic of Ireland, subject to availability of places. Additional facilitator training is included so that you can become a facilitator of this course and run it in your own institution. A further commitment of five learner hours will be required for the facilitator add-on, in addition to attendance at two extra webinars over 2 weeks.
Course Schedule

Cybersecurity Awareness for Teaching and Learning in Higher Education

Dates
Weeks
Webinar
Facilitator

04/10/24
Week 1
Friday 13:00-14:30
Brian Ahern, Gillian O’Caroll

11/10/2024
Week 2
Friday 13:00-14:30
Dr Hazel Murray, Dr Ashley Sheil

18/10/2024
Week 3
Friday 13:00-14:30
Dr Anila Mjeda, Dr George O’Mahony

25/10/2024
Week 4
Friday 13:00-14:30
Dr Anila Mjeda, Miriam Curtin

01/11/2024
Term break

08/11/2024
Week 5
Friday 13:00-14:30
Brian Ahern

15/11/2024
Week 6
Friday 13:00-14:30
Deirde Leahy

Learning Objectives

Understand cybersecurity fundamentals in an educational context.
Recognize and mitigate common digital teaching and learning threats, particularly phishing and ransomware attacks.
Apply secure configuration and usage techniques for educational software tools.
Implement cybersecurity best practices in teaching and learning.
Analyse and evaluate ethical considerations for establishing a secure digital teaching environment that protects educators and students.

Learning Outcomes
By the end of the “Cybersecurity Awareness for Teaching and Learning in Higher Education” course, educators will be able to:

Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of cybersecurity fundamentals within the context of higher education, including the principles of data protection, encryption, and secure communication.
Identify and effectively mitigate common digital teaching and learning threats, with a particular focus on phishing and ransomware attacks.
Apply secure configuration and usage techniques for a variety of educational software tools, such as Zoom, Teams, and Virtual Learning Environments, to safeguard instructional materials and ensure a secure learning environment for students.
Implement cybersecurity best practices in their teaching and learning processes, including the use of strong, unique passwords, multi-factor authentication, and data encryption, to reduce vulnerabilities and protect sensitive educational data.
Analyse and evaluate ethical considerations when establishing a secure digital teaching environment, addressing issues related to privacy, data protection, and responsible technology use, while fostering a addressing issues related to privacy, data protection, and responsible technology use, while fostering a culture of trust and respect among educators and students.

Learning Activities

Activity
Per week
Seven Weeks

Online meeting
90 min
6 hours

Triad meeting
60 min
6 hours

Independent learning
100 min
12 hours

Total
250 min
24 hours

Content

Indicative content
Facilitator/Guest speaker

Intro to cybersecurity in Higher Education
Brian Ahern , Gillian O’Caroll

Recognizing and Mitigating Digital Threats (1/2)
Dr Hazel Murray, Dr Ashley Sheil

Recognizing and Mitigating Digital Threats (2/2)
Dr Anila Mjeda, Dr George O’Mahony

Secure Configuration and Usage of Educational Software Tools
Dr Anila Mjeda, Miriam Curtin

Data Protection in Scientific Research
Brian Ahern

Ethical Considerations in Cybersecurity
Deirde Leahy

Registration
Registrations are closed
For more information, email Dr Anila Mjeda – anila.mjeda@mtu.ie.

Online Course: Universal Design Beyond the Classroom (Autumn 2024)
2024-10-07 08:00 - 2024-12-15 17:00 UTC
This course is for colleagues who interact either directly or indirectly with learners beyond the reaches of the classroom setting who wish to utilise the Universal Design for Learning framework to provide an inclusive educational experience. It will provide practical knowledge and tips to empower student support and engagement staff working beyond the classroom in further and higher education and training. This Badge is sibling to the Digital Badge for Universal Design in Teaching & Learning. Not sure which Badge is for you? Complete this quick quiz Which Badge Should I Take? to help your decision.
This 10-week course consists of:

5 self-directed online modules
4 peer group sessions: these meetings allow participants to engage with each other, learn about different contexts, and share ideas.
3 recorded webinars
1 redesign activity: using the Universal Design framework and a +1 approach, participants will redesign an aspect of their work and report on findings from their implementation.

A flexible programme to fit around busy schedules, this course provides an opportunity for sustained reflection, helps make sense of inclusion, enhances participants’ skill sets and is a valuable piece of continuous professional development. This badge will serve to inspire you to universally design your practices, regardless of your role, so that all students and staff can engage with your work.
Course Schedule

Digital Badge Dates Autumn 2024

Week
Date
Time
Topic
Facilitator

Week 1
07/10/24
13:00
Orientation
AHEAD & UCD

Week beg 07/10/24
N/A
Module 1 eLearning
N/A

Week 2
Week beg 14/10/24
N/A
Module 2 eLearning
N/A

Week beg 14/10/24
TBC
1st Peer Group Meeting
Peer Group Facilitator

Week 3
24/10/24
13:00
Introducing the Redesign Activity
AHEAD & UCD

Week beg 24/10/24
N/A
Module 3 eLearning
N/A

Week 4
Week beg 28/10/24
N/A
Module 4 eLearning
N/A

Week 5
Week beg 04/11/24
N/A
Module 5 eLearning
N/A

Week 6
Week beg 11/11/24
N/A
Redesign Activity Work Ongoing
N/A

Week 7
Week beg 18/11/24
N/A
Redesign Activity Work Ongoing
N/A

Week 8
Week beg 25/11/24
N/A
Redesign Activity Work Ongoing
N/A

Week 9
Week beg 02/12/24
N/A
Redesign Activity Work Ongoing
N/A

Week 10
09/12/24
13:00
Redesign Submission Questions and Facilitator Badge Information
AHEAD & UCD

Submission Date
15/12/24
23:59
Submission of Redesign activity and Peer Verification Form
N/A

Learning Outcomes

Explain the current context in relation to Universal Design in tertiary education, reflecting on the diversity of your own student/learner populations;
Explain and demonstrate understanding of the key areas of accessibility legislation which must be adhered to in an educational setting;
Evaluate the diverse needs of learners, identifying how learners’ circumstances can impact their experience;
Reflect on how you can remove barriers to access through Universal Design of student/learner supports and services;
Apply the principles of Universal Design to your own practice.

Learning Activities

Activity
Per week
Ten Weeks

Live Webinar
60 min
3 hours

Peer Group meeting
30-60 min
1.5-3 hours

Independent learning
N/A
7 hours

Redesign Activity
N/A
12 hours

Total
N/A
25 hours

Content

Indicative content
Facilitator/Guest speaker

Introduction to Universal Design
Multiple Means of Engagement
Multiple Means of Representation
Multiple Means of Action & Expression
Mapping the Learner Journey
AHEAD & UCD

Facilitator’s Badge
Dr Lisa Padden, UCD
Purpose: Develop capacity for delivery of Digital Badge by institution staff for institution staff

Registration
For more information, please contact UDBeyond@ahead.ie, or our eLearning and Digital Media Officer Danielle O’Rourke – danielle.orourke@ahead.ie
Click here to register

Online Course: Universal Design in Teaching and Learning (Autumn 2024)
2024-10-07 13:00 - 2024-12-15 23:30 UTC
Implementation of universal design principles in Teaching & Learning promotes inclusivity and equity while also ‘futureproofing’ your teaching.
As our classrooms and lecture theatres become increasingly diverse, our practices must also adapt to reflect the changing landscape of higher education. Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is an educational framework based on research in the learning sciences, including cognitive neuroscience, which guides the development of flexible learning environments that can accommodate individual learning differences and cater for the wide range of diversity in our lecture rooms. This CPD course will give you an introduction to the concept of Universal Design for Learning and invite you to review and update your own Teaching and Learning practice.
This Badge is sibling to the Digital Badge for Universal Design Beyond the Classroom. Not sure which Badge is for you? Complete this quick quiz to help your decision.”
Course Schedule

Digital Badge Dates Autumn 2024

Week
Date
Time
Topic
Facilitator

Week 1
07/10/24
13:00
Orientation
AHEAD & UCD

Week beg 07/10/24
N/A
Module 1 eLearning
N/A

Week 2
Week beg 14/10/24
N/A
Module 2 eLearning
N/A

Week beg 14/10/24
TBC
1st Peer Group Meeting
Peer Group Facilitator

Week 3
24/10/24
13:00
Introducing the Redesign Activity
AHEAD & UCD

Week beg 24/10/24
N/A
Module 3 eLearning
N/A

Week 4
Week beg 28/10/24
N/A
Module 4 eLearning
N/A

Week 5
Week beg 04/11/24
N/A
Module 5 eLearning
N/A

Week 6
Week beg 11/11/24
N/A
Redesign Activity Work Ongoing
N/A

Week 7
Week beg 18/11/24
N/A
Redesign Activity Work Ongoing
N/A

Week 8
Week beg 25/11/24
N/A
Redesign Activity Work Ongoing
N/A

Week 9
Week beg 02/12/24
N/A
Redesign Activity Work Ongoing
N/A

Week 10
09/12/24
13:00
Redesign Submission Questions and Facilitator Badge Information
AHEAD & UCD

Submission Date
15/12/24
23:59
Submission of Redesign activity and Peer Verification Form
N/A

Learning Outcomes

Reflect on the Diversity of Students in your Institution;
Gain a good understanding of the Universal Design for Learning framework and how it can support diverse learners;
Deepen your understanding of UDL through peer engagement;
Redesign some elements of your teaching and learning practice based on your knowledge of UDL principles;
Consider how you will change your practice more broadly in line with a UDL approach.

Learning Activities

Activity
Per week
Ten Weeks

Live Webinar
60 min
3 hours

Peer Group meeting
30-60 min
1.5-3 hours

Independent learning
N/A
7 hours

Redesign Activity
N/A
12 hours

Total
N/A
25 hours

Content

Indicative content
Facilitator/Guest speaker

Introduction to UDL
Multiple Means of Engagement
Multiple Means of Representation
Multiple Means of Action & Expression
Reflecting on Your Practice
AHEAD & UCD

Facilitator’s Badge
Dr Lisa Padden, UCD
Purpose: Develop capacity for delivery of Digital Badge by institution staff for institution staff

Registration
For more information, please contact UDBeyond@ahead.ie, or our eLearning and Digital Media Officer Danielle O’Rourke – danielle.orourke@ahead.ie
Click here to register

Online course: GenAI for Teaching and Learning: How to do it right? (October 2024)
2024-10-23 08:00 - 2024-12-04 17:00 UTC
The National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education are delighted to announce that the fully online Open Course GenAI for Teaching and Learning: How to do it right? will run from October 2024.
This free 7 week course is available to all staff currently working in tertiary education in the Republic of Ireland, subject to availability of places. Additional facilitator training is included so that you can become a facilitator of this course and run it in your own institution. A further commitment of five learner hours will be required for the facilitator add-on, in addition to attendance at two extra webinars over 2 weeks.
Course Schedule

GenAI for Teaching and Learning: How to do it right?

Dates
Theme
Description
Facilitator

23/10/24
Introduction and Overview
Discussion board and activities
Dr Ana Elena Schalk (Trinity College)

28/10/2024 to 01/11/24
Theme 1
Self-study and some learning activities
Dr Ana Elena Schalk (Trinity College)

04/11/2024 to 08/11/2024
Theme 2
Synchronous session online on Wednesday 6th November (12:00 to 13:00)
Dr Caitriona Ní Shé (Trinity College)

11/11/2024 to 15/11/2024
Theme 3
Synchronous session online on Wednesday 13th November (12:00 to 13:00)
Dr Martina Crehan. (DCU)

18/11/2024 to 22/11/2024
Theme 4
Synchronous session online on Wednesday 20th November (12:00 to 13:00)
Dr. Mary Fitzpatrick. (UL)

25/11/2024 to 29/11/2024
Theme 5
Showcases

02/12/2024 to 06/12/2024
Theme 6
Presentation of the PBL projects to embed GenAI in T&L + Synchronous session online on Wednesday 11th December (12:00 to 13:30)

Learning Outcomes

Recognise what is meant by the terminology used around GenAI, with a particular focus on its use within higher education.
Evaluate the use of AI in teaching, learning and assessment with a focus on ‘what, why and how’.
Explore and reflect on pedagogical practices within the disciplines which incorporate the use of GenAI.
Design and embed GenAI within your teaching, learning and assessment practices.

Learning Activities

Activity
Per week
Seven Weeks

4 online sessions
60 min
4 hours

Directed and independent learning
180 min
14 hours

PBL final project
60 min
7 hours

Total

25 hours

Content

Indicative content
Facilitator/Guest speaker

Introduction to GenAI and how it works
Dr Ana Elena Schalk

Understanding GenAI types of tools their capabilities and limitations
Dr Caitriona Ní Shé

Challenges of GenAI in Teaching and Learning in HE
Dr Martina Crehan

Opportunities to embed GenAI in supporting student’s learning
Dr Mary Fitpatrick

Some examples within the disciplines and what the early evidence shows
Self-Study

Time to practice: Hands-on!
Dr Pauline Rooney, Dr Caitriona Ní She, Dr Martina Crehan, Dr Mary Fitpatrick, Dr Ana Elena Schalk.

Registration
Registration is now closed
For more information, email Dr Ana Schalk – SCHALKA@tcd.ie (Facilitator)

Online course: Embedding the SDGs across the Curriculum (October 2024)
2024-10-30 08:00 - 2025-01-06 17:00 UTC
The National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education are delighted to announce that the fully online Open Course Embedding the SDGs across the Curriculum – Open Courses will run from October 2024.
This free 6 week course is available to all staff currently working in tertiary education in the Republic of Ireland, subject to availability of places. Additional facilitator training is included so that you can become a facilitator of this course and run it in your own institution. A further commitment of five learner hours will be required for the facilitator add-on, in addition to attendance at two extra webinars over 2 weeks.
Course Schedule

Embedding the SDGs across the Curriculum

Dates
Theme
Description
Facilitator

30/10/24
Introduction
Wednesday 13.00-13.30
Dr. Mark Kelly, Dr. John Scahill

06/11/2024
Workshop 1
Wednesday 13.00-14.00
Dr. Mark Kelly, Dr. John Scahill

13/11/2024
Workshop 2
Wednesday 13.00-14.00
Dr. Mark Kelly, Dr. John Scahill

20/11/2024
Workshop 3
Wednesday 13.00-14.00
Dr. Mark Kelly, Dr. John Scahill

27/11/2024
Workshop 4
Wednesday 13.00-14.00
Dr. Mark Kelly, Dr. John Scahill

04/12/2024
Workshop 5
Wednesday 13.00-14.00
Dr. Mark Kelly, Dr. John Scahill

11/12/2024
Workshop 6
Wednesday 13.00-14.00
Dr. Mark Kelly, Dr. John Scahill

22/01/2025
Week 7
Facilitator’s Badge Part 1
Dr. Mark Kelly, Dr. John Scahill

29/01/2025
Week 8
Facilitator’s Badge Part 2
Dr. Mark Kelly, Dr. John Scahill

Learning Objectives

Raise awareness and understanding of the SDGs within an educational context with a view to catalysing action on embedding them more holistically across the curriculum.
Create a community of practice amongst higher and further education staff through the digital and facilitator badges, that will lead the curriculum transformation required to equip students with the necessary competences to become change agents for a sustainable future.
What are the SDGs and what role does HE and FE play in meeting the listed targets?
How can HE and FE embed the SDGs more holistically across the curriculum?
Programme and module design that embrace the SDGs citing international best practice examples.
Best practice examples of teaching, learning and assessment.

The main learning outcomes include:

Demonstrate an ability to critically explore the SDGs and how they may apply across all disciplines.
Critically evaluate and analyse SDG teaching, learning and assessment approaches within the context of different disciplines.
Explore opportunities to utilize inter- and transdisciplinary approaches to embedding the SDGs across the curriculum.

Learning Activities
The learning activities will be a mixture of online weekly workshops, peer triads, and independent learning.

Activity
Hours per week
Six Weeks

Weekly Pre-Workshop Activities
3 hours
18 hours

Weekly Online Workshop 1 hour
1 hour
6 hours

Reflection

1 hour

Total

25 hours

Content

Indicative content
Facilitator/Guest speaker

SDGs in Higher Education
Dr. Mark Kelly, Dr. John Scahill

Mapping the SDGs across the Curriculum
Dr. Mark Kelly, Dr. John Scahill

Integrating the SDGs into the Curriculum
Dr. Mark Kelly, Dr. John Scahill

Embedding the SDGs across the Curriculum
Dr. Mark Kelly, Dr. John Scahill

Exploring Critiques of the SDGs
Dr. Mark Kelly, Dr. John Scahill

Registration
Registrations are now closed
For more information, email Dr Mark Kelly – Mark.Kelly@atu.ie (Facilitator)

Online course: Education for Sustainability (February 2025)
2025-02-20 - 2025-04-17
The National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education are delighted to announce that the fully online Open Course Education for Sustainability will run from February 2025. This course will be delivered in partnership with Atlantic Technological University, Technological University Dublin and South East Technological University.
This free 6 week course is available to all staff currently working in tertiary education in the Republic of Ireland, subject to availability of places. Additional facilitator training is included so that you can become a facilitator of this course and run it in your own institution. A further commitment of five learner hours will be required for the facilitator add-on, in addition to attendance at two extra webinars over 2 weeks.
Course Schedule

Education for Sustainability

Dates
Theme
Facilitator

20th February, from 1.00-2.00pm
Introduction
Dr. Brian Gormley (TU Dublin), Dr. Mark Kelly (HEA/ATU) and Dr. Nataliya Romanyatova (SETU)

27th February, from 1.00-2.00pm
ESD in context
Dr. Lucia Walsh (TU Dublin)

6th March, from 1.00-2.00pm
The SDG framework
Dr. Olivia Freeman (TU Dublin) and Dr. John Scahill (ATU)

13th March, from 1.00-2.00pm
Embodying Sustainability Values
Dr. Aimee Byrne (TU Dublin)

BREAK
BREAK
BREAK

27th March, from 1.00-2.00pm
Embracing Complexity in Sustainability
Dr. Ken Boyle (TU Dublin) and Dr. John Scahill (ATU)

3rd April, from 1.00-2.00pm:
Envisioning Sustainable Futures
Dr. Brian Gormley (TU Dublin)

10th April , from 1.00-2.00pm:
Acting for Sustainability
Dr. Nataliya Romanyatova (SETU)

1st May, from 1.00-2.00pm
Facilitators add-on week 1
Dr. Mark Kelly (HEA/ATU) and Dr. Brian Gormley (TU Dublin)

8th May, from 1.00-2.00pm
Facilitators add-on week 2
Dr. Mark Kelly (HEA/ATU) and Dr. Brian Gormley (TU Dublin)

Learning Outcomes

Reflect on the role of education for sustainability in the context of global, national, and local drivers.
Engage with education for sustainability concepts, contexts, principles, and practices.
Examine the EU Sustainability Competency Framework through the lens of embodying sustainability values, embracing complexity in sustainability, envisioning sustainable futures, and acting for sustainability.
Explore how to redesign elements of your teaching and learning practice by embedding education for sustainability principles.

Learning Activities

The course includes asynchronous work, weekly live sessions, and peer group learning.
Individual pre-work typically comprises short videos, reading and quizzes to be completed ahead of the weekly live webinars.
Interactive 1-hour live webinars focus on specific topics and include case studies, guest speakers and group discussion.
Peer Triads allow you to learn from, and work with, your peers.

Registration

Registrations are now closed

For more information, email Dr Mark Kelly – Mark.Kelly@atu.ie (Facilitator)

Online Course: Recognition of Prior Learning (April 2025)
2025-04-02 08:00 - 2025-06-04 17:00 UTC
The National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education are delighted to announce that the fully online Open Course, Recognition of Prior Learning, will run from April 2025. This course has been developed in partnership with the Recognition of Prior Learning in Higher Education Project, a HCI Pillar 3 initiative, see www.priorlearning.ie for more details.
This free 6 week course is available to all staff currently working in tertiary education in the Republic of Ireland, subject to availability of places. Additional facilitator training is included so that you can become a facilitator of this course and run it in your own institution. A further commitment of five learner hours will be required for the facilitator add-on, in addition to attendance at two extra webinars over 2 weeks.
Course Schedule

RPL Digital Badge

Week
Date
Time
Topic
Facilitator

Week 1
02.04.2025
9.30am – 11.00am
Setting the Scene
Dr Ciara Staunton

Week 2
09.04.2025
9.30am – 11.00am
Enabling Success
Dr Ciara Staunton

EASTER BREAK

Week 3
30.04.2025
9.30am – 11.00am
Conceptual Frameworks
Dr Ciara Staunton

Week 4
07.05.2025
9.30am – 11.00am
The Learner Voice
Dr Ciara Staunton

Week 5
14.05.2025
9.30am – 11.00am
Practical Approaches
Dr Ciara Staunton

Week 6
21.05.2025
9.30am – 11.00am
The Irish Context/Policies
Dr Ciara Staunton

Week 7
28.05.2025
9.30am – 10.30am
Facilitator Badge
Dr Ciara Staunton

Week 8
04.06.2025
9.30am – 10.30am
Facilitator Badge
Dr Ciara Staunton

Learning Outcomes

Explain the concept of RPL and reflect on its application within their own setting;
Reflect on the potential impact of RPL for an institution, its staff and students;
Identify existing policies and consider their alignment with practice;
Analyse the relationship between programme and module learning outcomes and the RPL candidate.

Learning Activities

Activity
Per week
Six Weeks

Live Webinar
90 min
9 hours

Triad meeting
60 min
6 hours

Independent learning
100 min
10 hours

Total
250 min
25 hours

Content

Indicative content
Facilitator/Guest speaker

RPL – Setting the Scene
RPL – Enabling Success
RPL – Conceptual Frameworks
RPL – The Learner Voice
RPL – Practical Approaches
RPL – The Irish Context/Policies
Dr Ciara Staunton; guest speakers (TBC)

Facilitator’s Badge
Dr Ciara Staunton
Purpose: Develop capacity for delivery of Digital Badge by institution staff for institution staff

Registration

Registrations are now closed

For more information, email Dr Ciara Staunton at ciara.staunton@thea.ie (Facilitator), or Dr Clare Walsh at clare.walsh@thea.ie (RPL in HE Project). You can also visit www.priorlearning.ie for more details.

Online course: Digital Leadership in Higher Education (September 2025)
2025-09-29 08:00 - 2025-11-07 17:00 UTC
The National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education are delighted to announce that the fully online Digital Leadership in Higher Education will run from September 29th, 2025. This course has been developed in partnership with the University of Galway and its partners in the CUTIE Erasmus+ project.
This free 6-week course is available to all staff currently working in tertiary education in the Republic of Ireland and to others who are interested in the EU and beyond, subject to availability of places.
The materials will also be released under an appropriate Creative Commons licence for sharing and re-use after the course is completed.
Course Schedule

Digital Leadership in Higher Education

Dates
Week
Activities (self-study)
Webinar/Live Meeting*

29/09/25
Week 1
Online Content & Tasks
03.10.25 (Friday) 13:00-14:00

06/10/2025
Week 2
Online Content & Tasks
10.10.25 (Friday) 13:00-14:00

13/10/2025
Week 3
Online Content & Tasks
17.10.25 (Friday) 13:00-14:00

20/10/2025
Week 4
Online Content & Tasks
24.10.25 (Friday) 13:00-14:00

27/10/2025
Week 5
Online Content & Tasks
31.10.25 (Friday) 13:00-14:00

03/11/2025
Week 6
Online Content & Tasks
07.11.25 (Friday) 13:00-14:00

*The Webinars/Live Meetings are optional but recommended (particularly if aiming for the digital badge), recordings or summaries will be made available to those unable to meet at the scheduled time, so please don’t be dissuaded by that!

Learning Outcomes

Be able to use the European Framework for the Digital Competence of Educators (DigCompEdu) individually and for teams.
Develop confidence and knowledge of the potential and actual use of technologies in supporting teaching, learning, and assessment, with the emphasis on pedagogical and curricular aspects.
Recognise the importance of developing critical digital literacy amongst staff and students as a means of empowerment in a time of rapid technological change (particularly with regards Gen AI).
Have skills, techniques, and practical tools to facilitate reflection on the current situation within their team and institutional context in terms of the digital capability of their unit or department.
Be able to develop action plans and strategies for enhancing the use of technologies to support teaching and learning in their programmes and for the professional development of teams.
Explore examples of practice from institutions, research, and other projects internationally.

Learning Activities

Activity
Indicative time (per week)

Reading and reflecting on online lesson content
120 min

Completing the tasks/questionnaires/reflections
60 min

Webinar/Live meeting/online discussion
60 min

Total
240 min

Note that these are ‘indicative’ and depend on how on how much further reading or exploring you do. The time needed may vary per topic.

Content

Topic
Indicative content

Mapping your context
An overall introduction and sets the scene, introducing DigCompEdu

Digital resources in your programme(s)
Covering all aspects of text, multimedia, interactive, and open licensing

Using technology to support teaching and learning
Consideration of the integration of pedagogy and technologies

Technology and assessment
Developing assessment strategy and dealing with issues of validity and integrity

Using technology strategy for learner confidence
Empowering learners and developing their digital skills and competencies

Digital Leadership & Collegiality
Highlighting the importance of developing a team and suggestions of possible practical actions. Discussion on AI impact and challenges.

Note that, whilst DigCompEdu predates the release of Gen AI tools, such as ChatGPT, we will consider these in a number of the sections, with a final section of topic 6 devoted entirely to considering the bigger picture, context, and strategic challenges.
Registration
For more information, please contact Dr. Iain MacLaren at iain.maclaren@universityofgalway.ie (Course Facilitator).
Registration is closed

Online Course: Recognition of Prior Learning (October 2025)
2025-10-01 08:00 - 2025-11-26 17:00 UTC
The National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education are delighted to announce that the fully online Open Course, Recognition of Prior Learning, will run from 1st October 2025. This course has been developed in partnership with the Recognition of Prior Learning in Higher Education Project, a HCI Pillar 3 initiative, see www.priorlearning.ie for more details.
This free 6 week course is available to all staff currently working in tertiary education in the Republic of Ireland, subject to availability of places. Additional facilitator training is included so that you can become a facilitator of this course and run it in your own institution. A further commitment of five learner hours will be required for the facilitator add-on, in addition to attendance at two extra webinars over 2 weeks.

Course Schedule

RPL Digital Badge

Week
Date
Time
Topic
Facilitator

Week 1
01.10.2025
9.30am – 11.00am
Setting the Scene
Dr Ciara Staunton

Week 2
09.10.2025
9.30am – 11.00am
Enabling Success
Dr Ciara Staunton

Week 3
15.10.2025
9.30am – 11.00am
Conceptual Frameworks
Dr Ciara Staunton

Week 4
22.10.2025
9.30am – 11.00am
The Learner Voice
Dr Ciara Staunton

Halloween Break

Week 5
05.11.2025
9.30am – 11.00am
Practical Approaches
Dr Ciara Staunton

Week 6
12.11.2025
9.30am – 11.00am
The Irish Context/Policies
Dr Ciara Staunton

Week 7 (Facilitator Badge)
19.11.2025
9.30am – 10.30am
Facilitator Badge
Dr Ciara Staunton

Week 8 (Facilitator Badge)
26.11.2025
9.30am – 10.30am
Facilitator Badge
Dr Ciara Staunton

Learning Outcomes

Explain the concept of RPL and reflect on its application within their own setting;
Reflect on the potential impact of RPL for an institution, its staff and students;
Identify existing policies and consider their alignment with practice;
Analyse the relationship between programme and module learning outcomes and the RPL candidate.

Learning Activities

Activity
Per week
Six Weeks

Live Webinar
90 min
9 hours

Triad meeting
60 min
6 hours

Independent learning
100 min
10 hours

Total
250 min
25 hours

Content

Indicative content
Facilitator/Guest speaker

RPL – Setting the Scene
RPL – Enabling Success
RPL – Conceptual Frameworks
RPL – The Learner Voice
RPL – Practical Approaches
RPL – The Irish Context/Policies
Dr Ciara Staunton; guest speakers (TBC)

Facilitator’s Badge
Dr Ciara Staunton
Purpose: Develop capacity for delivery of Digital Badge by institution staff for institution staff

Registration
Registrations are closed.

For more information, email facilitators Dr. Clare Walsh (clare.walsh@tua.ie) or Dr Ciara Staunton (Ciara.staunton@tua.ie), or visit www.priorlearning.ie.

Online course: Universal Design Beyond the Classroom (October 2025)
2025-10-06 08:00 - 2025-12-14 17:00 UTC
This course is for colleagues who interact either directly or indirectly with learners beyond the reaches of the classroom setting who wish to utilise the Universal Design for Learning framework to provide an inclusive educational experience. It will provide practical knowledge and tips to empower student support and engagement staff working beyond the classroom in further and higher education and training. This Badge is sibling to the Digital Badge for Universal Design in Teaching & Learning. Not sure which Badge is for you? Complete this quick quiz Which Badge Should I Take? to help your decision.
This 10-week course consists of:

5 self-directed online modules
4 peer group sessions: these meetings allow participants to engage with each other, learn about different contexts, and share ideas.
3 recorded webinars
1 redesign activity: using the Universal Design framework and a +1 approach, participants will redesign an aspect of their work and report on findings from their implementation.

A flexible programme to fit around busy schedules, this course provides an opportunity for sustained reflection, helps make sense of inclusion, enhances participants’ skill sets and is a valuable piece of continuous professional development. This badge will serve to inspire you to universally design your practices, regardless of your role, so that all students and staff can engage with your work.
Course Schedule
The links to join the online webinars and the slides for each can be found on the online course platform.

Week
Date
Time
Topic
Facilitator

Week 1
(w/c 06/10/2025)
06/10/25
13:00 – 14:00
Webinar – Orientation
AHEAD & UCD

Week 1
Anytime
N/A
Module 1 eLearning
N/A

Week 1
TBC
TBC
Welcome Session
Peer Group Facilitator

Week 2
(w/c 13/10/2025)
Anytime
N/A
Module 2 eLearning
N/A

Week 2
TBC
TBC
1st Peer Group Meeting
Peer Group Facilitator

Week 3
(w/c 20/10/2025)
Anytime
N/A
Module 3 eLearning
N/A

Week 3
23/10/25
13:00 – 14:00
Webinar – Introducing the Redesign Activity
AHEAD & UCD

Week 4
(w/c 27/10/2025)
Anytime
N/A
Module 4 eLearning
N/A

Week 4
TBC
TBC
2nd Peer Group Meeting
Peer Group

Week 5
(w/c 03/11/2025)
Anytime
N/A
Module 5 eLearning
N/A

Week 5
TBC
TBC
3rd Peer Group Meeting
Peer Group

Week 6
(w/c 10/11/2025)
Continuing
N/A
Redesign Activity Work Ongoing
N/A

Week 6 onwards
TBC
TBC
Weekly drop-ins with Peer Group Facilitator – confirm time with them
Peer Group Facilitator

Week 7
(w/c 17/11/2025)
Continuing
N/A
Redesign Activity Work Ongoing
N/A

Week 8
(w/c 24/11/2025)
Continuing
N/A
Redesign Activity Work Ongoing
N/A

Week 9
(w/c 01/12/2025)
Continuing
N/A
Redesign Activity Work Ongoing
N/A

Week 10
(w/c 08/12/2025)
08/12/25
13:00 – 14:00
Webinar 3 – Redesign Submission Questions and Facilitator Badge Information
AHEAD & UCD

Week 10
TBC
TBC
Final Peer Group Meeting
Peer Group Facilitator

Submission Date
12/12/25
23:59
Submission of Redesign activity and Peer Verification Form
N/A

w/c = week commencing
TBC = to be confirmed
N/A = Not applicable
Please note that all three online webinars will be recorded and made available for viewing afterwards.
Learning Outcomes

Explain the current context in relation to Universal Design in tertiary education, reflecting on the diversity of your own student/learner populations;
Explain and demonstrate understanding of the key areas of accessibility legislation which must be adhered to in an educational setting;
Evaluate the diverse needs of learners, identifying how learners’ circumstances can impact their experience;
Reflect on how you can remove barriers to access through Universal Design of student/learner supports and services;
Apply the principles of Universal Design to your own practice.

Learning Activities

Activity
Per week
Ten Weeks

Live Webinar
60 min
3 hours

Peer Group meeting
30-60 min
1.5-3 hours

Independent learning
N/A
7 hours

Redesign Activity
N/A
12 hours

Total
N/A
25 hours

Content

Indicative content
Facilitator/Guest speaker

Introduction to Universal Design
Multiple Means of Engagement
Multiple Means of Representation
Multiple Means of Action & Expression
Mapping the Learner Journey
AHEAD & UCD

Facilitator’s Badge
Dr Lisa Padden, UCD
Purpose: Develop capacity for delivery of Digital Badge by institution staff for institution staff

Registration
For more information, please contact UDBeyond@ahead.ie, or our eLearning and Digital Media Officer Danielle O’Rourke – danielle.orourke@ahead.ie
Click here to register

Online course: Universal Design for Learning (October 2025)
2025-10-06 08:00 - 2025-12-14 17:00 UTC
Implementation of universal design principles in Teaching & Learning promotes inclusivity and equity while also ‘futureproofing’ your teaching.
As our classrooms and lecture theatres become increasingly diverse, our practices must also adapt to reflect the changing landscape of higher education. Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is an educational framework based on research in the learning sciences, including cognitive neuroscience, which guides the development of flexible learning environments that can accommodate individual learning differences and cater for the wide range of diversity in our lecture rooms. This CPD course will give you an introduction to the concept of Universal Design for Learning and invite you to review and update your own Teaching and Learning practice.
This Badge is sibling to the Digital Badge for Universal Design Beyond the Classroom. Not sure which Badge is for you? Complete this quick quiz to help your decision.”
Course Schedule
The links to join the online webinars and the slides for each can be found on the online course platform.

Week
Date
Time
Topic
Facilitator

Week 1
(w/c 06/10/2025)
06/10/25
13:00 – 14:00
Webinar – Orientation
AHEAD & UCD

Week 1
Anytime
N/A
Module 1 eLearning
N/A

Week 1
TBC
TBC
Welcome Session
Peer Group Facilitator

Week 2
(w/c 13/10/2025)
Anytime
N/A
Module 2 eLearning
N/A

Week 2
TBC
TBC
1st Peer Group Meeting
Peer Group Facilitator

Week 3
(w/c 20/10/2025)
Anytime
N/A
Module 3 eLearning
N/A

Week 3
23/10/25
13:00 – 14:00
Webinar – Introducing the Redesign Activity
AHEAD & UCD

Week 4
(w/c 27/10/2025)
Anytime
N/A
Module 4 eLearning
N/A

Week 4
TBC
TBC
2nd Peer Group Meeting
Peer Group

Week 5
(w/c 03/11/2025)
Anytime
N/A
Module 5 eLearning
N/A

Week 5
TBC
TBC
3rd Peer Group Meeting
Peer Group

Week 6
(w/c 10/11/2025)
Continuing
N/A
Redesign Activity Work Ongoing
N/A

Week 6 onwards
TBC
TBC
Weekly drop-ins with Peer Group Facilitator – confirm time with them
Peer Group Facilitator

Week 7
(w/c 17/11/2025)
Continuing
N/A
Redesign Activity Work Ongoing
N/A

Week 8
(w/c 24/11/2025)
Continuing
N/A
Redesign Activity Work Ongoing
N/A

Week 9
(w/c 01/12/2025)
Continuing
N/A
Redesign Activity Work Ongoing
N/A

Week 10
(w/c 08/12/2025)
08/12/25
13:00 – 14:00
Webinar 3 – Redesign Submission Questions and Facilitator Badge Information
AHEAD & UCD

Week 10
TBC
TBC
Final Peer Group Meeting
Peer Group Facilitator

Submission Date
12/12/25
23:59
Submission of Redesign activity and Peer Verification Form
N/A

w/c = week commencing
TBC = to be confirmed
N/A = Not applicable
Please note that all three online webinars will be recorded and made available for viewing afterwards.
Learning Outcomes

Reflect on the Diversity of Students in your Institution;
Gain a good understanding of the Universal Design for Learning framework and how it can support diverse learners;
Deepen your understanding of UDL through peer engagement;
Redesign some elements of your teaching and learning practice based on your knowledge of UDL principles;
Consider how you will change your practice more broadly in line with a UDL approach.

Learning Activities

Activity
Per week
Ten Weeks

Live Webinar
60 min
3 hours

Peer Group meeting
30-60 min
1.5-3 hours

Independent learning
N/A
7 hours

Redesign Activity
N/A
12 hours

Total
N/A
25 hours

Content

Indicative content
Facilitator/Guest speaker

Introduction to UDL
Multiple Means of Engagement
Multiple Means of Representation
Multiple Means of Action & Expression
Reflecting on Your Practice
AHEAD & UCD

Facilitator’s Badge
Dr Lisa Padden, UCD
Purpose: Develop capacity for delivery of Digital Badge by institution staff for institution staff

Registration
For more information, please contact UDBeyond@ahead.ie, or our eLearning and Digital Media Officer Danielle O’Rourke – danielle.orourke@ahead.ie
Click here to register

Online course: Embedding the SDGs across the Curriculum (October 2025)
2025-10-09 08:00 - 2025-12-11 17:00 UTC
The National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education are delighted to announce that the fully online Open Course Embedding the SDGs across the Curriculum – Open Courses will run from October 2025.
This free 6 week course is available to all staff currently working in tertiary education in the Republic of Ireland, subject to availability of places. Additional facilitator training is included so that you can become a facilitator of this course and run it in your own institution. A further commitment of five learner hours will be required for the facilitator add-on, in addition to attendance at two extra webinars over 2 weeks.
Course Schedule

Embedding the SDGs across the Curriculum

Dates
Theme
Description
Facilitator

09/10/25
Introduction
Thursday 13.00-13.30
Facilitated by Dr. Mark Kelly (HEA/ATU) and Dr. John Scahill (ATU) with support from Dr. Nataliya Romanyatova (SETU) and David Chernick (ATU).

16/10/2025
Workshop 1 SDGs at an Institutional Scale
Thursday 13.00-14.00
Facilitated by Dr. Mark Kelly (HEA/ATU) and Dr. John Scahill (ATU) with support from Dr. Nataliya Romanyatova (SETU) and David Chernick (ATU).

Guest Speaker: Professor Tasman Crowe (UCD)

23/10/2025
Workshop 2 SDGs Curriculum Mapping
Thursday 13.00-14.00
Facilitated by Dr. Mark Kelly (HEA/ATU) and Dr. John Scahill (ATU) with support from Dr. Nataliya Romanyatova (SETU) and David Chernick (ATU).

Guest Speaker: Dr. Cormac McMahon (TU Dublin)

06/11/2025
Workshop 3 Embedding the SDGs across the Curriculum
Thursday 13.00-14.00
Facilitated by Dr. Alma Clavin (University of Galway) and Dr. Elizabeth Hurley (University of Galway) with support from Dr. Nataliya Romanyatova (SETU) and David Chernick (ATU).

13/11/2025
Workshop 4 Embedding the SDGs across the Curriculum
Thursday 13.00-14.00
Facilitated by Dr. Alma Clavin (University of Galway) and Dr. Elizabeth Hurley (University of Galway) with support from Dr. Nataliya Romanyatova (SETU) and David Chernick (ATU).

20/11/2025
Workshop 5 Best Practice Examples
Thursday 13.00-14.00
Facilitated by Dr. Mark Kelly (HEA/ATU) with support from Dr. Nataliya Romanyatova (SETU) and David Chernick (ATU).

Guest Speaker: Dr. John Scahill (ATU)

27/11/2025
Workshop 6 Collaboration for Good
Thursday 13.00-14.00
Facilitated by Dr. Mark Kelly (HEA/ATU) and Dr. John Scahill (ATU) with support from Dr. Nataliya Romanyatova (SETU) and David Chernick (ATU).

Guest Speaker: Dr. John Barimo (UCC)

03/12/2025
Facilitator’s Badge Part 1 Facilitator Guidance
Thursday 13.00-14.00
Facilitated by Dr. Mark Kelly (HEA/ATU) and Dr. John Scahill (ATU) with support from Dr. Nataliya Romanyatova (SETU) and David Chernick (ATU).

10/12/2025
Facilitator’s Badge Part 2 Facilitator Presentations
Thursday 12.00-14.00
Facilitated by Dr. Mark Kelly (HEA/ATU) and Dr. John Scahill (ATU) with support from Dr. Nataliya Romanyatova (SETU) and David Chernick (ATU).

Learning Objectives

Raise awareness and understanding of the SDGs within an educational context with a view to catalysing action on embedding them more holistically across the curriculum
Create a community of practice amongst higher and further education staff through the digital and facilitator badges, that will lead the curriculum transformation required to equip students with the necessary competences to become change agents for a sustainable future
What are the SDGs and what role does HE and FE play in meeting the listed targets?
How can HE and FE embed the SDGs more holistically across the curriculum?
Programme and module design that embrace the SDGs citing international best practice examples.
Best practice examples of teaching, learning and assessment.

The main learning outcomes include:

Demonstrate an ability to critically explore the SDGs and how they may apply across all disciplines.
Critically evaluate and analyse SDG teaching, learning and assessment approaches within the context of different disciplines.
Explore opportunities to utilize inter- and transdisciplinary approaches to embedding the SDGs across the curriculum.

Learning Activities
The learning activities will be a mixture of online weekly workshops, peer triads, and independent learning.

Activity
Hours per week
Six Weeks

Weekly Pre-Workshop Activities
3 hours
18 hours

Weekly Online Workshop 1 hour
1 hour
6 hours

Reflection
1 hour
1 hour

Total

25 hours

Content

Indicative content
Facilitator/Guest speaker

SDGs in Higher Education
Dr. Mark Kelly

Mapping the SDGs across the Curriculum
Dr. Mark Kelly

Integrating the SDGs into the Curriculum
Dr. Mark Kelly

Embedding the SDGs across the Curriculum
Dr. Mark Kelly

Exploring Critiques of the SDGs
Dr. Mark Kelly

Registration

Registrations are now closed.
For more information, please contact Dr Mark Kelly Mark.Kelly@atu.ie (Course Facilitator).

Online course: Education for Sustainability (February 2026)
2026-02-12 13:00 - 2026-05-07 14:00 UTC
The National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education are delighted to announce that the fully online Open Course Education for Sustainability will run from February 2026. This course will be delivered in partnership with Atlantic Technological University, Technological University Dublin and South East Technological University.
This free 6 week course is available to all staff currently working in tertiary education in the Republic of Ireland, subject to availability of places. Additional facilitator training is included so that you can become a facilitator of this course and run it in your own institution. A further commitment of five learner hours will be required for the facilitator add-on, in addition to attendance at two extra webinars over 2 weeks.
Course Schedule

Education for Sustainability

Dates
Theme
Facilitator

12th February, from 1.00-1.30pm
Introduction to Open Course
Dr. Mark Kelly (ATU)/Dr. Brian Gormley (TU Dublin)

19th February, from 1.00-2.00pm
Overview of ESD
Dr. Mark Kelly (ATU)

26th March, from 1.00-2.00pm
ESD and the SDGs
Dr. Olivia Freeman (TU Dublin) and Dr. John Scahill (ATU)

5th March, from 1.00-2.00pm
Embodying Sustainability Values
Dr. Lucia Walsh (TU Dublin)

12th March, from 1.00-2.00pm
Embracing Complexity in Sustainability
Dr. Ken Boyle (TU Dublin)

19th March, from 1.00-2.00pm:
Envisioning Sustainable Futures
Dr. Brian Gormley (TU Dublin)

23rd March , from 1.00-2.00pm:
Acting for Sustainability
Dr. Mark Kelly (ATU)/Dr. Nataliya Romanyatova (SETU)

23rd April, from 1.00-2.00pm
Becoming a Facilitator
Dr. Mark Kelly (HEA/ATU) and Dr. Brian Gormley (TU Dublin)

7th May, from 1.00-2.00pm
Facilitator Presentations
All facilitators

Learning Outcomes

Reflect on the role of education for sustainability in the context of global, national, and local drivers.
Engage with education for sustainability concepts, contexts, principles, and practices.
Examine the EU Sustainability Competency Framework through the lens of embodying sustainability values, embracing complexity in sustainability, envisioning sustainable futures, and acting for sustainability.
Explore how to redesign elements of your teaching and learning practice by embedding education for sustainability principles.

Learning Activities

The course includes asynchronous work, weekly live sessions, and peer group learning.
Individual pre-work typically comprises short videos, reading and quizzes to be completed ahead of the weekly live webinars.
Interactive 1-hour live webinars focus on specific topics and include case studies, guest speakers and group discussion.
Peer Triads allow you to learn from, and work with, your peers.

Registration
REGISTRATIONS ARE NOW CLOSED
For more information, email facilitator Dr. Mark Kelly (Mark.Kelly@atu.ie).

Online Course: Recognition of Prior Learning (March 2026)
2026-03-25 08:00 - 2026-05-20 17:00 UTC
The National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education are delighted to announce that the fully online Open Course, Recognition of Prior Learning, will run from 25th March 2026. This course has been developed in partnership with the Recognition of Prior Learning in Higher Education Project, a HCI Pillar 3 initiative, see www.priorlearning.ie for more details.
This free 6 week course is available to all staff currently working in tertiary education in the Republic of Ireland. Additional facilitator training is included so that you can become a facilitator of this course and run it in your own institution. A further commitment of five learner hours will be required for the facilitator add-on, in addition to attendance at two extra webinars over 2 weeks.
Course Schedule

RPL Digital Badge

Week
Date
Time
Facilitator

Week 1
25.03.2026
9.30am – 11.00am
Dr Ciara Staunton

Week 2
01.04.2026
9.30am – 11.00am
Dr Ciara Staunton

EASTER BREAK

Week 3
15.04.2026
9.30am – 11.00am
Dr Ciara Staunton

Week 4
22.04.2026
9.30am – 11.00am
Dr Ciara Staunton

Week 5
29.04.2026
9.30am – 11.00am
Dr Ciara Staunton

Week 6
06.05.2026
9.30am – 11.00am
Dr Ciara Staunton

Week 7 (Facilitator Badge)
13.05.2026
9.30am – 10.30am
Dr Ciara Staunton

Week 8 (Facilitator Badge)
20.05.2026
9.30am – 10.30am
Dr Ciara Staunton

Learning Outcomes

Explain the concept of RPL and reflect on its application within their own setting;
Reflect on the potential impact of RPL for an institution, its staff and students;
Identify existing policies and consider their alignment with practice;
Analyse the relationship between programme and module learning outcomes and the RPL candidate.

Learning Activities

Activity
Per week
Six Weeks

Live Webinar
90 min
9 hours

Triad meeting
60 min
6 hours

Independent learning
100 min
10 hours

Total
250 min
25 hours

Content

Indicative content
Facilitator/Guest speaker

RPL – Setting the Scene
RPL – Enabling Success
RPL – Conceptual Frameworks
RPL – The Learner Voice
RPL – Practical Approaches
RPL – The Irish Context/Policies
Dr Ciara Staunton; guest speakers (TBC)

Facilitator’s Badge
Dr Ciara Staunton
Purpose: Develop capacity for delivery of Digital Badge by institution staff for institution staff

Registration
Registrations are closed.
For more information, email facilitators Dr. Clare Walsh (clare.walsh@tua.ie) or Dr Ciara Staunton (Ciara.staunton@tua.ie) See www.priorlearning.ie for more details.

Name*

First Name

Last Name

Email Address*

Institution*Atlantic Technological UniversityDublin Business SchoolDublin City UniversityDun Laoghaire Institute of Art and DesignDundalk Institute of TechnologyGriffith CollegeHibernia CollegeMarino Institute of EducationMary Immaculate CollegeMaynooth UniversityMunster Technological UniversityNational College of Art & DesignNational College of IrelandUniversity of GalwayRoyal College of Surgeons in IrelandRoyal Irish AcademySt Angela’s CollegeTU DublinTrinity College DublinUniversity College CorkUniversity College DublinUniversity of LimerickSouth East Technological UniversityTechnological University of the Shannon: Midlands MidwestOtherOther Institution*Position*Brief description on what you hope to take away from the badge.*(300 characters max)Do you require accommodations for a disability or difference?

Yes
Accessibility Requirements*e.g. captions for webinarsConsent* I agree to the privacy policy.

Open Course: Embedding Global Citizenship Education (GCE) into Higher Education (April 2026)
2026-04-14 08:00 - 2026-05-21 17:00 UTC
The National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education are delighted to announce that the fully online Open Course Embedding Global Citizenship Education (GCE) into Higher Education will run from April 2026.
This free 7 week course is available to all staff currently working in tertiary education in the Republic of Ireland, subject to availability of places.
Course Schedule

Embedding Global Citizenship Education (GCE) into Higher Education

Dates
Topic
Facilitator

Tues 14th April, 1-1.30pm
Course Orientation: Aims, expectations and how we will learn together
Caitriona Rogerson and Charlotte Bishop (STAND)

Thurs 16th April, 1-2pm
What is Global Citizenship Education? Foundations and Context
Dr Brighid Golden (Mary Immaculate College)

Thurs 23rd April, 1-2pm
Key Concepts and Debates in Global Citizenship Education
Dr Eilish Dillon (Maynooth University)

Thurs 30th April, 1-2pm
Teaching Global Citizenship: Creative and Participatory Methodologies
Dr Eilish Dillon (Maynooth University) and Charlotte Bishop (STAND)

Thurs 7th May, 1-2pm
Integrating a Global Justice Lens across disciplines & curricula
Dr Gertrude Cotter (UCC) and Dr David Nyaluke (UCC)

Thurs 14th May, 1-2pm
Global Citizenship Beyond the Lecture Hall: Co-curricular and Community Learning Opportunities
Charlotte Bishop (STAND) and Caitriona Rogerson (STAND)

Thurs 21st May, 1-2pm
From Ideas to Practice: Next Steps
Dr Brighid Golden (Mary Immaculate College)

Learning Outcomes

Identify the key principles, pedagogies, and frameworks of Global Citizenship Education (GCE)
Distinguish how GCE relates to and differs from complementary fields such as Education for Sustainable Development (ESD), development education, human rights education, anti-racism education, social justice education and intercultural education
Locate and reflect on examples of good practice in embedding GCE within higher education, both in Ireland and internationally
Explore opportunities for integrating GCE values, perspectives, and methodologies into your own professional or institutional contexts
Develop and present an actionable activity, plan, resource, or pedagogical approach that demonstrates how GCE can be embedded or strengthened within your own context.

Learning Activities

Activity
Per week
Seven Weeks

7 online sessions
1 hour
7 hours

6 Peer triads (peer to peer call)
1 hour
6 hours

Independent learning
1 hour
7 hours

Assignments towards achievement of badge (5 weeks)
1 hour
5 hours

TOTAL

25 hours

Breakdown of Learning Activities

The course includes weekly live online sessions (1 hour per week); individual learning (1 hour per week) and peer group learning (1 hour per week).
Interactive 1-hour live webinars focus on specific topics and include case studies, guest speakers and group discussion.
Individual learning typically comprises of readings, short videos, and activities to be completed following the weekly live sessions.
Peer Triads allow you to learn from, and work with, your peers on the course. You will be assigned to a triad with other course participants and you will meet weekly for 1 hour to discuss course materials and share learnings
You will be asked to submit short weekly assignments in order to be awarded the Digital Badge
Total learning hours: 25 hours

Registration
Registrations are closed.
For more information, email Caitriona Rogerson (caitriona@stand.ie).

Online course: Leading from within: capacity-building for ESD leadership (April 2026)
2026-04-29 08:00 - 2026-06-03 17:00 UTC
The National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education are delighted to announce that the fully online Open Course Leading from within: capacity building for ESD leadership will run from April 2026.
This free 7 week course is available to all staff currently working in tertiary education in the Republic of Ireland, subject to availability of places.
Course Schedule

Leading from within: capacity building for ESD leadership

Dates
Theme
Facilitator

29th April, 1-2pm
Online Introductory Session (30-45 mins) for participants to introduce them to the Open Course, the platform, peer triads.
Úna McInerney & Jennifer Farrell (UL)

6th May, 1-2pm
ESD Leadership in Higher Education: Broadening our understanding of leadership and the role of creative arts and humanities.
Úna McInerney (UL) & Mark Kelly (ATU)

13th May, 1-2pm
The Inner Development Guide (IDGs).
TUD

20th May, 1-2pm
Sustainability Mindset.
Deirdre Garvey (ATU)

27th May, 1-2pm
Regenerative Leadership
Lucia Walsh (TUD)

3rd June, 1-2pm
The Role of the Creative Arts and Humanities
Rónán O’Muirthile (IADT) & Hazel Farrell (SETU)

10th June, 1-2pm
Linking to Practice and Call to Action.
Eileen Hoffler, UL

Learning Outcomes
By programme end, participants will be able to:

Identify personal values, actions and leadership styles as they relate to the development of a sustainability mindset.
Examine institutional and societal challenges and opportunities using a cross-disciplinary lens to foster strategic insight.
Integrate insights with creative approaches to address real campus or community challenges.
Apply learning to action in ESD leadership and advocacy.

Learning Activities

Activity
Per week
Six Weeks

Live Webinar
1
7 hours

Triad meeting
1
6 hours

Independent learning
2
12 hours

Total

25 hours

Registration
Registrations are closed. For any additional information, please contact Una McInerney at Una.McInerney@ul.ie or Dr Mark Kelly at mark.kelly@atu.ie
