Annual ATU UDL Conference
2024-10-25
Conference details are located on our webpage – https://www.atu.ie/teaching-and-learning/udl/cef
The link to Express Interest in submitting a Poster is – https://forms.office.com/e/kkp7gCijwJ

Climbing the UDL Ladder: Practical Approaches to Embedding UDL in Tertiary Education (in Collaboration with The John Kelly Awards)
2024-10-25 09:00 - 16:30 UTC | Atlantic Technological University, Ash Lane, Sligo, F91 YW50
The ATU UDL Conference 2024 is scheduled for Friday, October 25, 2024, at the Atlantic Technological University (ATU) in Sligo. This year’s theme is “Climbing the UDL Ladder: Practical Approaches to Embedding UDL in Tertiary Education”.
You can find more information and reserve your spot at ATU UDL Conference 2024 in Collaboration with The John Kelly Awards

HEA Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series
2025-02-21 - 2025-11-24
Showcasing initiatives across higher education in Ireland with institutions sharing approaches to embedding ESD within and across disciplines.

HEA Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series – Dublin City University
2025-02-21 13:00 - 14:00 UTC
About This Event
As part of the Higher Education Authority (HEA) Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series, this session will explore how Dublin City University (DCU) is integrating ESD across teaching, research, and institutional initiatives and activities, supporting the development of sustainable practices within higher education.
What to Expect

Overview of DCU’s approach to ESD
Case studies on embedding sustainability in teaching, learning and research.
Practical takeaways for leaders, educators, researchers, and those supporting teaching and learning.
Opportunities for Q&A and peer learning.

Speakers

Barry Peak, ESD Officer, Dublin City University
Dr Cliona McParland, DCU Business School, Dublin City University
Dr Michael Hinds, Faculty of Humanities and Social Science, Dublin City University

Who Should Attend?
This session is open to everyone with an interest in sustainability in higher education, including educators, researchers, institutional leaders, students, and those who support teaching and learning.
Registration
Registration is open at https://hub.teachingandlearning.ie/esd-spotlight-series/
For enquiries, email mkelly@hea.ie.
About the ESD Spotlight Series
This event is part of the HEA Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series, featuring contributions from 20 higher education institutions across the Island of Ireland. The series highlights innovative approaches to embedding sustainability in teaching, research, and campus practices. Aligned with the Second National Strategy on Education for Sustainable Development – ESD to 2030 (DFHERIS/DoE/DCEDIY) and the UNESCO ESD Framework to 2030, it supports collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the integration of Education for Sustainable Development across the higher education sector.

2025 European Learning & Teaching Forum
2025-02-27 08:00 - 2025-02-28 17:00 UTC | Cork, Cork, Cork
2030 and beyond: towards responsive and adaptable higher education
It has become an accepted fact, if not a truism, that we are undergoing a period of change and
disruption that poses numerous challenges to higher education, as well as for society at large.
Building agility for unknown challenges that may emerge is thus a key issue for higher education
learning and teaching. How can we prepare our students, teachers and institutions for the path
ahead? Participants in this future-gazing edition of the European Learning & Teaching Forum will
jointly discuss strategies to develop future-readiness in and through learning and teaching. Key
questions include how higher education can safeguard its relevance through capacity for
adaptation and how graduates can be equipped with responsive and adaptable mindsets.
Through a mix of plenary and parallel sessions, the Forum provides a platform for discussion and
exchange of practice on how universities enhance learning and teaching. The Forum also presents
the work of the 2024 Learning & Teaching Thematic Peer Groups. It aims to gather higher
education professionals working at different levels on matters of learning and teaching to exchange
and discuss institutional practice and policy developments. The Forum is an ideal event for vicerectors
for academic affairs, deans, heads of learning and teaching centres, and management
involved in learning and teaching. It also welcomes students, policy makers and other stakeholders
in higher education.
For more information visit 2025 European Learning & Teaching Forum.

HEA Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series – Ulster University
2025-02-28 13:00 - 14:00 UTC
About This Event
As part of the Higher Education Authority (HEA) Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series, this session will include an outline of Ulster University’s (UU) longstanding institution-wide and multi-faceted approach to integrate ESD across all discipline curricula. The main focus of the webinar will be on a new strand of ESD work, Integrating Research and Teaching with/for Sustainability.
What to Expect

Overview of UU’s multi-faceted approach to ESD (2019-)
Outline of new ESD strand, Integrating Research and Teaching with/ for Sustainability
Overview of the UU Research Teaching Nexus Toolkit
Illustrative case studies integrating discipline sustainability research in learning, teaching and assessment practice.
Inspiration and practical takeaways for leaders, educators, researchers, and those supporting teaching and learning and/or seeking to progress ESD.
Opportunities for Q&A

Speakers

Dr Amanda Platt, Senior Lecturer Higher Education Practice and ESD Lead, UU
Dr Kieran Higgins, Lecturer in Higher Education Practice, UU
Professor Raymond Bond, Professor of Human Computer Systems, School of Computing, UU
Professor Pilar Fernandez-Ibanez, Professor in Environmental Engineering, School of Engineering, UU
Dr Susann Power, Senior Lecturer in Sustainable Tourism, Dept. of Hospitality Tourism & Events Mgt, UU

Who Should Attend?
This session is open to everyone with an interest in sustainability in higher education, including educators, researchers, institutional leaders, students, and all those who support teaching and learning
Registration
Registration is open at https://hub.teachingandlearning.ie/esd-spotlight-series/
For enquiries, email mkelly@hea.ie.
About the ESD Spotlight Series
This event is part of the HEA Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series, featuring contributions from 20 higher education institutions across the Island of Ireland. The series highlights innovative approaches to embedding sustainability in teaching, research, and campus practices. Aligned with the Second National Strategy on Education for Sustainable Development – ESD to 2030 (DFHERIS/DoE/DCEDIY) and the UNESCO ESD Framework to 2030, it supports collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the integration of Education for Sustainable Development across the higher education sector.

HEA Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series – University College Cork
2025-03-07 13:00 - 14:00 UTC
About This Event
As part of the Higher Education Authority (HEA) Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series, this session will explore how University College Cork (UCC) is integrating ESD across teaching, research, and institutional initiatives and activities, supporting the development of sustainable practices within higher education.
What to Expect

Overview of UCC’s approach to ESD
Case studies on embedding sustainability in teaching, learning and research.
Practical takeaways for leaders, educators, researchers, and those supporting teaching and learning.
Opportunities for Q&A and peer learning.

Speakers
Education for Sustainable Development at UCC: An Overview
Dr David Nyaluke Integrating the SDGs into Teaching with the UCC SDG Toolkit
Dr John Barimo ESD in Action: Practices and Approaches at UCC
Dr Catherine O’Mahony

Who Should Attend?
This session is open to everyone with an interest in sustainability in higher education, including educators, researchers, institutional leaders, students, and all those who support teaching and learning
Registration
Registration is open at https://hub.teachingandlearning.ie/esd-spotlight-series/

For enquiries, email mkelly@hea.ie.
About the ESD Spotlight Series
This event is part of the HEA Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series, featuring contributions from 20 higher education institutions across the Island of Ireland. The series highlights innovative approaches to embedding sustainability in teaching, research, and campus practices. Aligned with the Second National Strategy on Education for Sustainable Development – ESD to 2030 (DFHERIS/DoE/DCEDIY) and the UNESCO ESD Framework to 2030, it supports collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the integration of Education for Sustainable Development across the higher education sector.

HEA Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series – University of Galway
2025-03-14 13:00 - 14:00 UTC
About This Event
As part of the Higher Education Authority (HEA) Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series, this session will explore how University of Galway is integrating ESD across teaching, research, and institutional initiatives and activities, supporting the development of sustainable practices within higher education.
What to Expect

Overview of University of Galway’s approach to ESD
Case studies on embedding sustainability in teaching, learning and research.
Practical takeaways for leaders, educators, researchers, and those supporting teaching and learning.
Opportunities for Q&A and peer learning.

Speakers
Learning Through Doing: Lessons from Stakeholder Engagement in Media Education
Dr Kelly Fincham, College of Arts, Social Sciences and Celtic Studies, Global Media, University of Galway Matamaitic don Inbhuanaitheacht – An Irish-language Interdisciplinary Sustainability Module
Dr Fintan Hegarty, College of Science and Engineering, Mathematical and Statistical Sciences, University of Galway Creating an Undergraduate Transdisciplinary Sustainability Course at the University of Galway
Dr Gesche Kindermann, College of Science and Engineering, School of Natural Sciences, Earth and Life Sciences, University of Galway Embedding a Culture of ESD in a New Pharmacy Programme
Dr Joanne O’Dwyer, College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Pharmacy, University of Galway

Who Should Attend?
This session is open to everyone with an interest in sustainability in higher education, including educators, researchers, institutional leaders, students, and all those who support teaching and learning
Registration
Registration is open at https://hub.teachingandlearning.ie/esd-spotlight-series/

For enquiries, email mkelly@hea.ie.
About the ESD Spotlight Series
This event is part of the HEA Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series, featuring contributions from 20 higher education institutions across the Island of Ireland. The series highlights innovative approaches to embedding sustainability in teaching, research, and campus practices. Aligned with the Second National Strategy on Education for Sustainable Development – ESD to 2030 (DFHERIS/DoE/DCEDIY) and the UNESCO ESD Framework to 2030, it supports collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the integration of Education for Sustainable Development across the higher education sector.

HEA Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series – TU Dublin
2025-03-21 13:00 - 14:00 UTC
About This Event
As part of the Higher Education Authority (HEA) Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series, this session will explore how Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin) is integrating ESD across teaching, research, and institutional initiatives and activities, supporting the development of sustainable practices within higher education.
What to Expect

Overview of TU Dublin’s approach to ESD
Case studies on embedding sustainability in teaching, learning and research.
Practical takeaways for leaders, educators, researchers, and those supporting teaching and learning.
Opportunities for Q&A and peer learning.

Speakers
Education for Sustainable Development: An Assessment Approach
Dr Róisín Vize, Lecturer in Digital Marketing, TU Dublin
The role of Community Collaborations in Educating 21st century Horticulturists
Rachel Freeman, Lecturer in Horticulture, TU Dublin Sustainable Design in Civil and Structural Engineering: A case study of new module development
Caitríona Quinn, MSc. PGDip, Lecturer, School of Transport and Civil Engineering, TU Dublin

Who Should Attend?
This session is open to everyone with an interest in sustainability in higher education, including educators, researchers, institutional leaders, students, and all those who support teaching and learning
Registration
Registration is open at https://hub.teachingandlearning.ie/esd-spotlight-series/

For enquiries, email mkelly@hea.ie.
About the ESD Spotlight Series
This event is part of the HEA Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series, featuring contributions from 20 higher education institutions across the Island of Ireland. The series highlights innovative approaches to embedding sustainability in teaching, research, and campus practices. Aligned with the Second National Strategy on Education for Sustainable Development – ESD to 2030 (DFHERIS/DoE/DCEDIY) and the UNESCO ESD Framework to 2030, it supports collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the integration of Education for Sustainable Development across the higher education sector.

HEA Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series – Mary Immaculate College
2025-03-28 13:00 - 14:00 UTC
About This Event
As part of the Higher Education Authority (HEA) Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series, this session will explore how Mary Immaculate College (MIC) is integrating ESD across teaching, research, and institutional initiatives and activities, supporting the development of sustainable practices within higher education.
What to Expect

Overview of MIC’s approach to ESD
Case studies on embedding sustainability in teaching, learning and research.
Practical takeaways for leaders, educators, researchers, and those supporting teaching and learning.
Opportunities for Q&A and peer learning.

Speakers
Overview of ESD at Mary immaculate College – Collective Consolidation
Professor Lorraine McIlrath, Director of Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Interculturalism (EDII) at MIC Playing to our traditional strengths to deliver ESD:Teacher Education and Education for Sustainable Development (Undergraduate and post graduate opportunities)
Dr Anne Dolan, Associate Professor, MIC
New pathways for innovative ESD (Part 1)
Emma Gleeson, PhD Scholar, Department of Geography, MIC

New pathways for innovative ESD (Part 2)
Dr John Morrissey, Associate Professor in Geography, MIC

Supporting SDGs in Curriculum Design
Dr Katherine Whitehurst, Director of Teaching and Learning, MIC

Who Should Attend?
This session is open to everyone with an interest in sustainability in higher education, including educators, researchers, institutional leaders, students, and all those who support teaching and learning
Registration
Registration is open at https://hub.teachingandlearning.ie/esd-spotlight-series/

For enquiries, email mkelly@hea.ie.
About the ESD Spotlight Series
This event is part of the HEA Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series, featuring contributions from 20 higher education institutions across the Island of Ireland. The series highlights innovative approaches to embedding sustainability in teaching, research, and campus practices. Aligned with the Second National Strategy on Education for Sustainable Development – ESD to 2030 (DFHERIS/DoE/DCEDIY) and the UNESCO ESD Framework to 2030, it supports collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the integration of Education for Sustainable Development across the higher education sector.

HEA Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series – Atlantic Technological University
2025-04-04 13:00 - 14:00 UTC
About This Event
As part of the Higher Education Authority (HEA) Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series, this session will explore how Atlantic Technological University (ATU) is integrating ESD across teaching, research, and institutional initiatives and activities, supporting the development of sustainable practices within higher education.
What to Expect

Overview of ATU’s approach to ESD
Case studies on embedding sustainability in teaching, learning and research.
Practical takeaways for leaders, educators, researchers, and those supporting teaching and learning.
Opportunities for Q&A and peer learning.

Speakers
Overview of ATU ESD Academy
Dr John Scahill, Department of Building and Civil Engineering and Co-Lead of the ATU ESD Academy Engaging Community through the Power to Change Project
Dr Yvonne Lang, Lecturer and Project Manager Power to Change, ATU Embodying Outdoor and Place-Based ESD
Kevin O’Callaghan, Programme Co-ordinator for MSc in Outdoor Education, Sustainability and Wellbeing, Lecturer in Outdoor Education, ATU
Dr Deirdre Garvey, Head of Department of Environmental Humanities & Social Sciences, Chair ATU Mayo Green Campus An Analysis of the Environmental Attitudes of Undergraduate Construction Management Students
Dr Jan Gottsche, Lecturer in the Department of Building and Civil Engineering, ATU

Who Should Attend?
This session is open to everyone with an interest in sustainability in higher education, including educators, researchers, institutional leaders, students, and all those who support teaching and learning
Registration
Registration is open at https://hub.teachingandlearning.ie/esd-spotlight-series/

For enquiries, email mkelly@hea.ie.
About the ESD Spotlight Series
This event is part of the HEA Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series, featuring contributions from 20 higher education institutions across the Island of Ireland. The series highlights innovative approaches to embedding sustainability in teaching, research, and campus practices. Aligned with the Second National Strategy on Education for Sustainable Development – ESD to 2030 (DFHERIS/DoE/DCEDIY) and the UNESCO ESD Framework to 2030, it supports collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the integration of Education for Sustainable Development across the higher education sector.

HEA Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series – South East Technological University
2025-04-11 13:00 - 14:00 UTC
About This Event
As part of the Higher Education Authority (HEA) Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series, this session will explore how South East Technological University (SETU) is integrating ESD across teaching, research, and institutional initiatives and activities, supporting the development of sustainable practices within higher education.
What to Expect

Overview of SETU’s approach to ESD
Case studies on embedding sustainability in teaching, learning and research.
Practical takeaways for leaders, educators, researchers, and those supporting teaching and learning.
Opportunities for Q&A and peer learning.

Speakers
Dr David Ryan, Associate Vice President for Sustainability at SETU Juergen Bauer, Dipl. Ing. Architekt MRIAI, Lecturer in the Department of Architecture and the Built Environment & Dept. Coordinator of HCI Building Change 2022-2025, SETU Dr Hazel Farrell, Lead SETU Sustainability in the Arts Festival
Dr Denise O’Meara, Lecturer in Molecular Biology, Department of Science, School of Science and Computing, SETU
Dr Margaret Tynan, GROWTHhub Project Lead and Senior Lecturer in Enterprise and Management
GROWTHhub is funded by the Higher Education Authority’s HCI Pillar 3, a government programme designed to meet priority skills needs, by increasing collaboration between higher education and enterprise with a focus on innovations in teaching and learning.

Who Should Attend?
This session is open to everyone with an interest in sustainability in higher education, including educators, researchers, institutional leaders, students, and all those who support teaching and learning
Registration
Registration is open at https://hub.teachingandlearning.ie/esd-spotlight-series/

For enquiries, email mkelly@hea.ie.
About the ESD Spotlight Series
This event is part of the HEA Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series, featuring contributions from 20 higher education institutions across the Island of Ireland. The series highlights innovative approaches to embedding sustainability in teaching, research, and campus practices. Aligned with the Second National Strategy on Education for Sustainable Development – ESD to 2030 (DFHERIS/DoE/DCEDIY) and the UNESCO ESD Framework to 2030, it supports collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the integration of Education for Sustainable Development across the higher education sector.

OER25 Call for Proposals Now Open: "Speaking Truth to Power: Open Education and AI in the Age of Populism"
2025-04-22
OER25 Call for Proposals Now Open
The Call for Proposals is now open for OER25 – Speaking Truth to Power: Open Education and AI in the Age of Populism. This year’s Open Education Conference will take place on 23-24 June in London at the Resource for London conference centre.
All submissions are made via the Oxford Abstracts System. The Call for Proposals is open until noon, Tuesday 22 April 2025
For more information visit OER25 Call for Proposals Now Open | Association for Learning Technology

UCD Teaching and Learning Symposium 2025. Innovative Futures: Engaging Learners
2025-05-07 09:30 - 13:30 UTC
UCD are hosting their Teaching and Learning Symposium on Wednesday 7 May 2025 in the PwC Theatre, UCD Quinn School of Business,
This year’s Symposium, on the theme of “Innovative Futures: Engaging Learners” will feature renowned international keynote speaker Professor Punya Mishra of Arizona State University.
“Innovative Futures: Engaging Learners” is an occasion for us to imagine the future of learning at UCD. It will capture both the opportunities and challenges the University faces as we adapt to the changing needs of society and innovate our educational response to prepare students for their futures in a digital world.
How can we…?

Design learning that engages and empowers students
Support students to engage thoughtfully, ethically and critically with generative AI to support their learning and skills development
Build on the success of UCD’s distinctive educational experience
Enable and sustain innovation in teaching, learning and assessment practice

The Symposium will also feature projects led by UCD colleagues addressing the themes of Academic Integrity and Ethical Practice, Online Learning and Assessment, and Education for Sustainable Development. These projects were supported through SATLE – the Strategic Alignment of Teaching and Learning Enhancement Funding in Higher Education – administered by the Higher Education Authority’s National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning.
All Welcome: The audience for this event are higher education staff and students interested in teaching and learning, and the future of higher education.
» Book your place today!
For more information, visit the UCD Teaching & Learning website

Embracing Pedagogical Partnership: What Kind of Mindset, Courage, and Practices Are Necessary?
2025-05-08 09:30 - 15:30 UTC

HEA Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series – Trinity College Dublin
2025-05-09 13:00 - 14:00 UTC
About This Event
As part of the Higher Education Authority (HEA) Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series, this session will explore how Trinity College Dublin (TCD) is integrating ESD across teaching, research, and institutional initiatives and activities, supporting the development of sustainable practices within higher education.
What to Expect

Overview of TCD’s approach to ESD
Case studies on embedding sustainability in teaching, learning and research.
Practical takeaways for leaders, educators, researchers, and those supporting teaching and learning.
Opportunities for Q&A and peer learning.

Speakers
A Framework to Support Curriculum Design for ESD – facilitating the embedding of ESD into the Trinity Curriculum
Dr Caitríona Ní Shé, Academic Developer, Centre for Academic Practice
Caitríona’s role in Academic Practice involves the development and delivery of evidence based professional development for academic staff within Trinity, and contributing to funded projects on educational developments, such as Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). Caitríona has worked in higher education across a variety of roles since 2008. Her most recent prior role was as an Education Developer for Professional Development in the National Forum, she managed and evaluated the roll out of the National Forum’s suite of digitally badged professional development courses and supported the upgrading of the Open Courses platform. Prior to this, Caitríona designed, developed and implemented a short course for online educators as part of the #openteach project, led by DCU. In 2021 Caitríona completed her PhD on the use of technology-enhanced resources to support formative assessment in undergraduate Mathematics. Her current work is focused on curriculum design, encompassing aspects such as sustainability in the curriculum. Enacting Education for Sustainable Development in Trinity Business School
Dr Cicely Roche and Dr Norah Campbell
Dr Cicely Roche, Associate Professor in the School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Fellow in Education for Sustainable Development
Cicely’s key expertise is the design of curriculum to drive development of moral reasoning competencies, i.e. abilities underpinning decision-making through ambiguity in an ethically defensible manner. Her research also explores professional identity formation, ePortfolio for experiential learning, and developmental approaches to curriculum design in pharmacy-specific interprofessional and/or cross-institutional contexts. Over the past two years, Cicely has been part of the ESD team at Trinity, working on initiatives to support the University’s transition to achieve its strategic vision for ESD. Her role with Academic Practice addresses staff development in Reflection and Programme-focused approaches to assessment.
Dr Norah Campbell, Associate Professor, Trinity Business School
Norah is a lecturer in critical marketing. Her teaching is in management theory, and science and technology studies. Her research interests are in nano-bio-info-cogno markets, climate change, and the food industry. This work has been published in both science journals (Nature Nanotechnology) and social science journals (Science, Technology and Human Values). A Roadmap to Inform and Track Trinity’s ESD Journey
Dr John Gallagher, Associate Professor, Department of Civil, Structural & Environmental Engineering
John is an Associate Professor in Environmental Systems Modelling in the School of Engineering, Director of TrinityHaus, a Trinity Research Centre, and Course Director for the new MSc in Climate Adaptation Engineering. In his 15 years as a researcher, sustainability has been central to his work, from air pollution and nature-based solutions to low-carbon and resource-efficient engineering systems, his teaching has reflected an approach to empower students with the knowledge and competencies to tackle the real-world challenges facing this planet. Over the past two years, John has been part of the ESD team at Trinity, working on initiatives to support the University’s transition to achieve its strategic vision for ESD. One such task is to benchmark current programmes, to provide an understanding of current performance, and direction for the future. Music and Climate: A Case Study in Ecomusicological Pedagogy
Dr Jonathan Hodgers, Lecturer, Department of Music, School of Creative Arts
Jonathan is a lecturer specialising in 20th-century music, with a particular emphasis on popular and vernacular traditions, as well as music’s impact on the environment. He earned his PhD in Music from Trinity College Dublin in 2014, where his dissertation, Dylan in Cinema, explored Bob Dylan’s influence on film. His monograph, Bob Dylan on Film: The Intersection of Music and Visuals, was published by Routledge in 2024. He is an editorial board member of the biannual journal The Dylan Review. In addition to his work on Dylan, he has also contributed to research on student data as a strategic resource and graduate employability. Jonathan is currently a Teaching Fellow in the Department of Music and was recently seconded to develop Trinity’s Education for Sustainable Development programme.

Who Should Attend?
This session is open to everyone with an interest in sustainability in higher education, including educators, researchers, institutional leaders, students, and all those who support teaching and learning
Registration
Registration is open at https://hub.teachingandlearning.ie/esd-spotlight-series/

For enquiries, email mkelly@hea.ie.
About the ESD Spotlight Series
This event is part of the HEA Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series, featuring contributions from 20 higher education institutions across the Island of Ireland. The series highlights innovative approaches to embedding sustainability in teaching, research, and campus practices. Aligned with the Second National Strategy on Education for Sustainable Development – ESD to 2030 (DFHERIS/DoE/DCEDIY) and the UNESCO ESD Framework to 2030, it supports collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the integration of Education for Sustainable Development across the higher education sector.

HEA ESD and Academic Quality Workshop
2025-05-12 - 2025-05-13
This workshop, hosted by the Higher Education Authority (HEA) and facilitated by Dr Alex Ryan, supports Irish higher education institutions in strategically implementing high-quality Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). The workshop aligns directly with the Government of Ireland’s ESD to 2030 Strategy and the HEA’s ESD programme objectives, specifically:

Advancing Policy
Training and Capacity-Building of Educators

The programme addresses key strategic aspects of ESD, promoting best practices around quality assurance, transparency, and effective responses to student demand for sustainability-focused education.
Key topics include

Strategic ESD development – building professional capacity to develop and implement effective multi-stakeholder, cross-portfolio curriculum change strategies, in alignment with related education strategy priorities (ESD to 2030; CJUU network reports, 2024)
Good practice – addressing new concerns around transparency and academic quality principles in ESD, to ensure relevance and efficacy of the offer (UNECE ESD strategy priority ‘ESD and Quality Education’; UK QAA funded projects ESD and Quality, 2023)
Learner needs – delivering curricula that respond to consistent student demand for ESD in all courses (SOS-UK 2024), applicant decision-making in sustainability (QS survey 2024) and graduate career expectations in sustainability and industry (Deloitte 2024)

Intended Outcomes

Increased knowledge of best practice in ESD progress assessment and quality criteria
Understanding how student expectations in ESD can be embedded in policy and CPD
Improved ESD change leadership capability relevant to institutional contexts and needs
Action planning with participants to progress local institutional ESD delivery plans
Collaborative capacity building using expertise across the national ESD leads network

Registration:
This event is by invitation-only. For further information, please contact admin@teachingandlearning.ie
Lead Facilitator
Dr Alex Ryan is Director at Learning Energy Education for Sustainability. An experienced, award-winning higher education sustainability director and certified coach, Alex has a strong track record in academic and operational sustainability. Specialising in ESD, she has led significant curriculum change and large-scale funded R&D projects, including the UK QAA-funded ‘Anti-Greenwash Education’ project (2022-23). A UK National Teaching Fellow (2017), Alex is recognised for significant impact in ESD at institutional and sector levels and authored a REF2021 impact case study on embedding ESD into higher education curricula. She is an invited expert on QAA/Advance HE groups focusing on UK national ESD guidance and subject benchmark integration.
Contributors
Dr Amanda Platt (PhD, MSc, BSc (Hons), PgCert) is a Senior Lecturer in Higher Education Practice at Ulster University, UU Education for Sustainable Development Lead and a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. In 2018, Amanda initiated an institution-wide and multi-faceted approach to explicitly embed Education for Sustainable Development in academic quality processes and across all discipline curricula, using the globally recognised UN Sustainable Development Goals. As Chair of the UU Responsible Futures Working Group (2023-), Amanda led Ulster University’s successful submission for SOS-UK Responsible Futures Accreditation, earned in January 2025 following a student-led audit. Dr Platt is also Course Director of the PgCert in Higher Education Practice (PgCHEP) and in 2020 explicitly embedded ESD in the curricula of this Advance HE accredited mandatory programme (Descriptor 2, PSF, 2023), which is undertaken by new Ulster educators.
Colette Murphy is Senior Lecturer and Curriculum Consultant in Higher Education Practice at Ulster University. In a range of diverse academic and academic-related roles spanning 20 years at Ulster University, Colette has gained significant experience in leading and co-leading partnerships and the co-production of Institutional, National and International curriculum change projects. Areas of specialism include Curriculum Design, Service Design, Future Skills and cross-cutting themes of ESD and wellbeing. She is co-founder and lead developer on Ulster’s Integrated Curriculum Design framework (ICDF) and is currently leading the service design of an institutional curriculum approval system. Colette has BSc and a MSc degree and a PGCert in Higher Education Practice. She is a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (SFHEA).

HEA Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series – Munster Technological University
2025-05-16 13:00 - 14:00 UTC
About This Event
As part of the Higher Education Authority (HEA) Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series, this session will explore how Munster Technological University (MTU) is integrating ESD across teaching, research, and institutional initiatives and activities, supporting the development of sustainable practices within higher education.
What to Expect

Overview of MTU’s approach to ESD
Case studies on embedding sustainability in teaching, learning and research.
Practical takeaways for leaders, educators, researchers, and those supporting teaching and learning.
Opportunities for Q&A and peer learning.

Speakers
A University Wide Approach for an Inclusive Curriculum for a Sustainable Future
Dr Niamh Power, Lecturer in Civil, Structural & Environmental Engineering, MTU and Chairperson of the Environmental Science association of Ireland
Dr Niamh Power is the current Chairperson of the Environmental Science Association of Ireland. She is a Lecturer and Researcher, in Munster Technological University, Ireland. She received an honours degree in Civil & Structural Engineering coming top of her class, before pursuing her PhD in the area of waste management, anaerobic digestion and biogas as a transport fuel. Her interests focus on the area of sustainability with particular expertise in waste management, anaerobic digestion, renewable energy from wastes & crops, nutrient recycling, nutrient recover from wastewater, life cycle analysis and policies & drivers for change and the circular economy. She is involved in a number of large national and EU research projects on the circular economy and sustainability. Dr. Power also worked on the N-TUTORR project as the sustainability lead for MTU and looked at embedding education for sustainable development within higher education. She led out on the Universities curriculum framework ‘An Inclusive Curriculum for a Sustainable Future’. CARES: Curriculum Advancements & Rapid Embedding of Sustainability
Maria Cullinane, Programme Coordinator for Sustainable Energy Engineering at MTU
Maria is a Mechanical Engineer and Programme Coordinator for Sustainable Energy Engineering at Munster Technological University (MTU), Cork, and a lecturer in the Department of Process, Energy & Transport Engineering. She is passionate about embedding sustainability, global citizenship, and the UN SDGs into engineering education. Her work spans curriculum development, staff and student engagement, and national and institutional initiatives aimed at transforming higher education for a more just, inclusive, and sustainable future. Dr Aisling O’Gorman, Programme Coordinator & Lecturer Chemical & Biopharmaceutical Engineering, MTU
Aisling is a chemical engineer and is the Programme Coordinator for the B. Eng.(Hons) degree in Chemical & Biopharmaceutical Engineering in MTU. She teaches across all four years of the degree programme and is interested in integrating sustainability, innovation, and entrepreneurship into the engineering curriculum. She has completed projects enhancing module content, redesigning assessment methods, and evolving programme design in collaboration with student partners. She is currently working with a student-staff team on a Learning Enhancement Project in MTU focused on curriculum advancements and the rapid embedding of sustainability (CARES). ‘A Healthy MTU‘: Leveraging universities as settings for health, wellbeing, and sustainable development.
Dr Andrea Bickerdike, Lecturer in Health & Wellbeing and Director of ‘A Healthy MTU‘
Dr Andrea Bickerdike is a Lecturer in Health & Wellbeing at Munster Technological University (MTU), Co-Director of ‘A Healthy MTU‘ (MTU‘s designated Healthy Campus programme), Principal Investigator within the HEX-SPO (‘Health, Exercise & Sport Sciences’) Research Group, and MTU Director of an interinstitutional MSc programme in Health and Wellbeing (delivered jointly the College of Medicine & Health at UCC and Dept. of Sport, Leisure & Childhood Studies at MTU). Andrea’s research interests encompass the implementation and evaluation of health promotion interventions, measurement/monitoring of population health and wellbeing indicators, and leveraging the unique potential of universities as settings for health, wellbeing, and sustainable development. Of note, she participated in the early co-creation process of what would later evolve into the HEA ‘Healthy Campus’ Charter, and currently sits on the HEA Student and Staff Health and Wellbeing Advisory Group. A Design Thinking approach to implementing Sustainability Thinking in teaching practice
Lisa Zimmermann, Assistant Lecturer in Visual Communications at MTU
Lisa Zimmermann is an Assistant Lecturer in Visual Communications at MTU. She has researched Sustainability in Design through three Masters theses–using the lenses of Design Practice, Environmental Science, and Education. Her current PhD research at UCC explores how Sustainability Thinking can be taught and implemented effectively in the Irish Design industry.

Who Should Attend?
This session is open to everyone with an interest in sustainability in higher education, including educators, researchers, institutional leaders, students, and all those who support teaching and learning
Registration
Registration is open at https://hub.teachingandlearning.ie/esd-spotlight-series/

For enquiries, email mkelly@hea.ie.
About the ESD Spotlight Series
This event is part of the HEA Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series, featuring contributions from 20 higher education institutions across the Island of Ireland. The series highlights innovative approaches to embedding sustainability in teaching, research, and campus practices. Aligned with the Second National Strategy on Education for Sustainable Development – ESD to 2030 (DFHERIS/DoE/DCEDIY) and the UNESCO ESD Framework to 2030, it supports collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the integration of Education for Sustainable Development across the higher education sector.

HEA Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series – National College of Art and Design
2025-05-23 13:00 - 14:00 UTC
About This Event
As part of the Higher Education Authority (HEA) Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series, this session will explore how National College of Art and Design (NCAD) is integrating ESD across teaching, research, and institutional initiatives and activities, supporting the development of sustainable practices within higher education.
What to Expect

Overview of NCAD’s approach to ESD
Case studies on embedding sustainability in teaching, learning and research.
Practical takeaways for leaders, educators, researchers, and those supporting teaching and learning.
Opportunities for Q&A and peer learning.

Speakers
Creative Boardroom: Collaborate 4 Climate
Louise Allen, Director, Director of the Creative Futures Academy
Louise is the Director of the Creative Futures Academy, a partnership between the National College of Art & Design (NCAD), Institute of Art, Design + Technology (IADT) and University College Dublin (UCD) that provides modular credited programmes to creative professionals looking to develop their skills. She is leading on the development and delivery of Creative Boardroom: Collaborate4Climate, an initiative funded by Creative Ireland’s Climate Action Fund. NCAD Staff Circular Economy Sandpit
Enda O’Dowd, Lecturer & Programme Coordinator – MSc, Medical Device Design
Enda O’Dowd is a lecturer in Product Design and joint course coordinator of the MSc Medical Device Design at NCAD. With a background in Materials Science Enda is a strong advocate for studio education and the experiential learning it enables. He believes that design led projects allow students to apply science and technology in an iterative process of analysis and synthesis. This allows for projects to be creative and human centred but also applies the scientific and engineering rigour necessary for the design of medical devices. He is keenly interested in the design of new products, services and business models for the complex ecosystems found in both medical care and the circular economy.

Who Should Attend?
This session is open to everyone with an interest in sustainability in higher education, including educators, researchers, institutional leaders, students, and all those who support teaching and learning
Registration
Registration is open at https://hub.teachingandlearning.ie/esd-spotlight-series/

For enquiries, email mkelly@hea.ie.
About the ESD Spotlight Series
This event is part of the HEA Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series, featuring contributions from 20 higher education institutions across the Island of Ireland. The series highlights innovative approaches to embedding sustainability in teaching, research, and campus practices. Aligned with the Second National Strategy on Education for Sustainable Development – ESD to 2030 (DFHERIS/DoE/DCEDIY) and the UNESCO ESD Framework to 2030, it supports collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the integration of Education for Sustainable Development across the higher education sector.

ILTA EdTech Conference 2025
2025-05-29 - 2025-05-30
ILTA organises an annual EdTech national conference with partner educational institutions across Ireland. Each year, EdTech is held in a different Irish Higher Education Institution. Our upcoming EdTech 2025 conference event will be held in Waterford in the South East Technological University in May 2025. Learn more

HEA Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series – Institute of Art, Design and Technology
2025-05-30 13:00 - 14:00 UTC
About This Event
As part of the Higher Education Authority (HEA) Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series, this session will explore how Institute of Art, Design and Technology (IADT) is integrating ESD across teaching, research, and institutional initiatives and activities, supporting the development of sustainable practices within higher education.
What to Expect

Overview of IADT’s approach to ESD
Case studies on embedding sustainability in teaching, learning and research.
Practical takeaways for leaders, educators, researchers, and those supporting teaching and learning.
Opportunities for Q&A and peer learning.

Speakers
Strategic Overview & IADT Roadmap
Rónán O Muirthile, Head of Faculty & Climate Champion, IADT The Good Guide to Creative Practice
Heitor Laforga de Araujo Monterio, Interdisciplinary designer and researcher, IADT alumnus and one of the creators of The Good Guide SDG Introduction for Students and Curriculum Support for Staff
Louise Glynn, Lecturer in Computing, IADT
Cross-Faculty Teaching, Campus Initiatives, and Community Collaboration
Clyde Doyle, Lecturer in Design + Visual Arts, IADT Media and Climate Change, & Campus Permeability
Dr Cormac Deane, Lecturer in Film and Media,Department of Humanities, IADT

Who Should Attend?
This session is open to everyone with an interest in sustainability in higher education, including educators, researchers, institutional leaders, students, and all those who support teaching and learning
Registration
Registration is open at https://hub.teachingandlearning.ie/esd-spotlight-series/

For enquiries, email mkelly@hea.ie.
About the ESD Spotlight Series
This event is part of the HEA Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series, featuring contributions from 20 higher education institutions across the Island of Ireland. The series highlights innovative approaches to embedding sustainability in teaching, research, and campus practices. Aligned with the Second National Strategy on Education for Sustainable Development – ESD to 2030 (DFHERIS/DoE/DCEDIY) and the UNESCO ESD Framework to 2030, it supports collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the integration of Education for Sustainable Development across the higher education sector.

Hope Summit: (Re)Imagining Higher Education
2025-06-13 09:30 - 15:30 UTC
University College Cork and Munster Technological University are pleased to present the Hope Summit: (Re)Imagining Higher Education.

Event Details:
This event is an opportunity for those working in Higher Education to collaboratively explore their future landscapes in the context of emerging challenges and opportunities. With a keynote address from Dr Jessica Riddell, author of Hope Circuits: Rewiring Universities and other Systems for Human Flourishing, the event will include a range of powerful voices from across the HE sector.
Focusing on discussions centred on emerging leadership challenges for future-ready institutions, the role of arts and culture in strategic visioning and systems transformation, and emancipatory integration of all key players in the ‘flourishing’ mission of universities, this event is designed to be both provocative and inclusive.
Through panels sessions, lightning talks, and hands-on workshops the day will afford hope-informed, facilitated quality time to network across the sector while hearing from a range of voices and perspectives.
Co-Hosted by:

Anna Santucci University College Cork
Pio Fenton Munster Technological University

Contributors to this event include:

Catherine Cronin Co-Editor of Higher Education for Good: Teaching & Learning Futures
Damien Page Vice Chancellor, Buckingham New University
Jessica Riddell Author and Founder of Hope Circuits Institute
Marese Bermingham Munster Technological University
Paul McSweeney University College Cork
Ross Woods Higher Education Authority

Keynote Speaker: Jessica Riddell
Founder of Hope Circuits Institute and Author of Hope Circuits: Rewiring Universities and other Systems for Human Flourishing. Full Professor of Early Modern Literature in the English Department at Bishop’s University (Quebec, Canada). She holds the Stephen A. Jarislowsky Chair of Undergraduate Teaching Excellence; in this capacity, she focuses on systems-change in higher education that fosters human flourishing; in her research, teaching, leadership, and administration, she participates in a wide range of conversations at the national and international levels about how universities fulfil the social contract to a broader society. https://www.jessicariddell.com
Event Summary:

Date: Friday 13th June 2025
Time: 09:30 AM – 15:30 PM
Venue: Aula Maxima, UCC

Registration:
Places are limited. To secure your spot, please register now!
https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/hope-summit-reimagining-higher-education-tickets-1306634471879

HEA Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series – Queen's University Belfast
2025-06-13 13:00 - 14:00 UTC
About This Event
As part of the Higher Education Authority (HEA) Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series, this session will explore how Queen’s University Belfast (QUB) is integrating ESD across teaching, research, and institutional initiatives and activities, supporting the development of sustainable practices within higher education.
What to Expect

Overview of QUB’s approach to ESD
Case studies on embedding sustainability in teaching, learning and research.
Practical takeaways for leaders, educators, researchers, and those supporting teaching and learning.
Opportunities for Q&A and peer learning.

Speakers
Strategic Overview: Queen’s University Belfast
Natalie Le Seelleur, Climate and Sustainability in the Curriculum Officer, QUB
Designing an Academic Development Programme to Support Embedding ESD in the Curriculum
Dr Alison Calvert, Senior Lecturer, School of Biological Sciences, QUB
Education for Sustainable Development in the Engineering Classroom
Dr Beatrice Smyth, Senior Lecturer, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, QUB
‘A walk on the wild side’: Embedding ESD through Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL)
Dr Niall Majury, Director of Education, School of Natural and Built Environment, QUB

Who Should Attend?
This session is open to everyone with an interest in sustainability in higher education, including educators, researchers, institutional leaders, students, and all those who support teaching and learning
Registration
Registration is open at https://hub.teachingandlearning.ie/esd-spotlight-series/

For enquiries, email mkelly@hea.ie.
About the ESD Spotlight Series
This event is part of the HEA Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series, featuring contributions from 20 higher education institutions across the Island of Ireland. The series highlights innovative approaches to embedding sustainability in teaching, research, and campus practices. Aligned with the Second National Strategy on Education for Sustainable Development – ESD to 2030 (DFHERIS/DoE/DCEDIY) and the UNESCO ESD Framework to 2030, it supports collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the integration of Education for Sustainable Development across the higher education sector.

HEA Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series – University College Dublin
2025-06-20 01:00 - 14:00 UTC
About This Event
As part of the Higher Education Authority (HEA) Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series, this session will explore how University College Dublin (UCD) is integrating ESD across teaching, research, and institutional initiatives and activities, supporting the development of sustainable practices within higher education.
What to Expect

Overview of UCD’s approach to ESD
Case studies on embedding sustainability in teaching, learning and research.
Practical takeaways for leaders, educators, researchers, and those supporting teaching and learning.
Opportunities for Q&A and peer learning.

Speakers
Professor Tasman Crowe is Vice-President for Sustainability at University College Dublin. Previously, he was director of the UCD Earth Institute and co-founder and co-director of a new interdisciplinary BSc in Sustainability. He is chair of Ireland’s National Biodiversity Forum and chaired an advisory group to government on the expansion of Ireland’s network of Marine Protected Areas.
His research characterises impacts of multiple stressors on marine ecosystems and the services they provide to society, including their cultural value. Professor Emma O’Neill is Co-Chair of the Education, Student Experience and Professional Development for Sustainability core working group in UCD. She is Professor in Small Animal Medicine and a specialist clinician in the UCD Veterinary Hospital, a UCD Fellow in Teaching and Academic Development, and member of UCD’s Centre for the Study of Higher Education Kirsten Southard is a Senior Programme Manager in the College of Science, after having worked as a Programme Manager for the newly established BSc Sustainability programme since its inception. She is interested in creating spaces on campus, whether physical or virtual, that allow students and staff to come together to take climate action, most recently in the form of the Greenacre Community Garden and in her role on the UCD Circular project.
Kendra Paleczny is a final-year BSc Sustainability student at University College Dublin, set to pursue a Master’s in Politics and Data Science. She is the co-creator of the UCD Sustainability Toolkit, an interactive resource designed to build climate literacy and empower students to take meaningful action. As the Project Lead of UCD Circular, Kendra leads efforts to reduce textile waste and promote circular economy thinking on campus, creating tangible, student-driven solutions to complex environmental challenges. She also co-founded the UCD Sustainability Society, where she amplifies student voices, fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, and advocates for evidence-based, systems-level change. Passionate about bridging the gap between scientific understanding and real-world impact, Kendra believes that empowering the next generation of environmental leaders is essential to achieving a sustainable future. Ainhoa González is Associate Professor in the School of Geography, University College Dublin (UCD). She is an environmental planner and her research focuses on co-creating and applying geospatial analysis methods and decision-support tools for assessing environmental change and impacts, to inform planning and decision-making towards sustainability. She has recently co-created a SDG dashboard with the Dundrum local community, and another with students and staff at UCD, as well as co-developed a participatory rural spatial planning tool with Roscommon County Council. Ainhoa is the Co-Chair of the UCD Sustainability Core Working Group on Engagement and Impact at UCD. She teaches sustainability, environmental assessment and Geographic Information Systems at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

Who Should Attend?
This session is open to everyone with an interest in sustainability in higher education, including educators, researchers, institutional leaders, students, and all those who support teaching and learning
Registration
Registration is open at https://hub.teachingandlearning.ie/esd-spotlight-series/

For enquiries, email mkelly@hea.ie.
About the ESD Spotlight Series
This event is part of the HEA Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series, featuring contributions from 20 higher education institutions across the Island of Ireland. The series highlights innovative approaches to embedding sustainability in teaching, research, and campus practices. Aligned with the Second National Strategy on Education for Sustainable Development – ESD to 2030 (DFHERIS/DoE/DCEDIY) and the UNESCO ESD Framework to 2030, it supports collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the integration of Education for Sustainable Development across the higher education sector.

Launch of ESD Compendium and Workshop at TUS
2025-09-24
On September 24th at 11:00 AM (B09) in TUS Athlone and online, CPID will officially launch it’s most recent volume of our compendia series, the Compendium of Embedding Education for Sustainable Development in Teaching, Learning and Assessment.
Professor Vincent Cunnane, TUS President, will formally launch the compendium. Professor Georgina Gough, the UK’s first female Professor of Education for Sustainable Development, will deliver the keynote address. Dr Mark Kelly of the HEA National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education Policy Advisor on ESD will also address the launch, which will include examples of some of the TUS case studies published in each of the compendia. Finally, the session will be closed by Mr Duncan Stewart, Architect, Environmentalist and TV Presenter.

Refreshments will be provided on arrival and a light lunch afterwards.
Compendia Launch Details
📅 Date: Wednesday, 24th September 2025
🕙 Time: 11.00 AM – 12.45 PM
📍 Location: TUS Athlone Campus (B09) and Online
👉 Please register here by Monday, 22nd September TUS Compendia Launch & ESD Workshop

Following the launch, at 2:30 PM – 5.00 PM (The Main Boardroom, Athlone Campus), CPID is delighted to host an Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) workshop facilitated by Professor Georgina Gough, Professor of Education for Sustainable Development at the University of the West of England. This workshop is open for all staff to register; no prior experience with ESD is required. If you are interested please register through the following link TUS Compendia Launch & ESD Workshop.

Finally, TUS will be hosting the HEA ESD Spotlight Series (online) on Friday, October 3rd at 1:00 PM where we will showcase the compendium at a national level. Please join us and support TUS wonderful ESD initiatives. Register or learn more: https://hub.teachingandlearning.ie/esd-spotlight-series/
Submitted by: Dr Noëlle O’Connor, Senior University Lecturer, Researcher and Educational Developer, Technological University of the Shannon (TUS).

Exploring Interactive Oral Assessment – DCU Teaching Enhancement Unit Seminar
2025-10-01 10:00 - 12:00 UTC
Are you thinking about innovating your assessment practice? Are you looking for authentic assessment approaches which can preserve academic integrity, and promote skill development and student engagement? As part of our 2025 Teaching & Learning week, the DCU Teaching Enhancement Unit will host a seminar on Interactive Oral Assessments and their role in facilitating authenticity and sustaining integrity in the age of Gen AI. Danielle Logan Fleming (the pioneer of the IO model) will speak about the future potential of IOs in becoming programmatic anchors across degrees, ensuring graduate attributes are not only assessed but lived. Colleagues from DCU and a number of other HEIs will share their experiences of designing and implementing IOs within their practice. The seminar is an opportunity for colleagues across institutions to learn about IOs and how they can be implemented across disciplines as well as to gain an understanding of the evolving and innovative assessment landscape.
Please register here to receive the Zoom link. If you have any questions or would like further information please feel free to contact us at: Lily Girme (lily.girme@dcu.ie) and Martina Crehan (martina.crehan@dcu.ie), Teaching Enhancement Unit, Dublin City University. You can find more information about IOs on the DCU IO webpage here

HEA Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series – Technological University of the Shannon
2025-10-03 13:00 - 14:00 (Europe/Dublin)
About This Event
As part of the Higher Education Authority (HEA) Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series, this session will showcase how the Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) is embedding ESD across teaching, research, programme design, and institutional practice. The session will highlight the impact of projects and innovative initiatives that are shaping sustainability education at TUS.
What to Expect

Overview of TUS’s institutional approach to ESD.
Insights from projects at TUS.
Launch of the TUS Compendium of Embedding ESD in Teaching, Learning and Assessment.
Case studies of ESD through research projects, programme and module design, and teaching strategies.
Opportunities for Q&A and peer learning.

Speakers
Mr Seamus Hoyne – Dean of Flexible and Work-Based Learning, Head of Centre, Thurles Campus, TUS
Overview of ESD within TUS Dr Nuala Harding – Head of the Centre for Pedagogical Innovation and Development (CPID), TUS
The impact of SATLE-funded ESD projects in TUS Dr Noëlle O’Connor – Senior Lecturer, Researcher and Educational Developer, TUS
Introducing the TUS Compendium of Embedding Education for Sustainable Development in Teaching, Learning and Assessment ESD through Funded Research Projects The Go Green Project! – Dr Rita Scully, Department of Built Environment GreenHive: A European Ecosystem for Sustainability Education – Dr Marie Taylor, Sustainable Development Research Institute (SDRI) ESD through Programme and Module Design within TUS
L9 Cert in Design For Sustainability & Circular Economies (Limerick School of Art and Design – LSAD) – Dr Adam de Eyto, Head of Design at the Limerick School of Art & Design (LSAD TUS) ESD through Teaching and Assessment Strategies
Safe Inhaler Disposal Campaign – Dr Gary Stack, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Biotechnology

Who Should Attend?
This session is open to everyone with an interest in ESD in higher education, including educators, researchers, institutional leaders, students, and all those who support teaching and learning
Registration
Registration is open at https://hub.teachingandlearning.ie/esd-spotlight-series/

For enquiries, email mkelly@hea.ie.
About the ESD Spotlight Series
This event is part of the HEA Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series, featuring contributions from 20 higher education institutions across the Island of Ireland. The series highlights innovative approaches to embedding ESD in teaching, research, and campus practices. Aligned with the Second National Strategy on Education for Sustainable Development – ESD to 2030 (DFHERIS/DoE/DCEDIY) and the UNESCO ESD Framework to 2030, it supports collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the integration of Education for Sustainable Development across the higher education sector.

Information Webinar: Expressions of Interest for Open Courses Development & Delivery 2025
2025-10-08 15:00 - 16:00 (Europe/Paris)
Date: Wednesday, 08 October 2025Time: 15:00–16:00 (Irish Standard Time)Location: Online (link provided upon registration)
About this Webinar
The Higher Education Authority and the National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education invite colleagues across the higher education community to join this online session introducing the 2025 Open Courses call for Expressions of Interest in course development and delivery.
Open Courses (opencourses.ie) is a national initiative supporting flexible, non-accredited professional development opportunities that align with the National Professional Development Framework for All Staff Who Teach in Higher Education.
For 2025, Open Courses are fully integrated with N-TUTORR’s My Digital Backpack, opening opportunities for both staff and students.
Who Should Attend?

Academic, teaching, professional and support staff across higher education (see eligible HEIs)

Institutional leads for teaching and learning, professional development, or open education, including those engaged in SATLE initiatives targeting professional development, capacity, and capability building

Potential course developers, facilitators, collaborators, and members of networks or communities of practice working in strategically important areas of teaching and learning

Anyone interested in preparing an Expression of Interest

What We’ll Cover

Overview of the 2025 Expression of Interest call

Funding available (up to €25,000 per proposal)

Categories:

New Open Course development

Updating existing Open Courses

OER & OEP in Higher Education

Requirements for course delivery, facilitator training, and self-study versions

Key dates and submission process

Q&A with the National Forum team

Key Dates

Expression of Interest launched: 23 September 2025

Information Webinar: 08 October 2025

Deadline for submission: 30 October 2025

Notification of outcome: 28 November 2025

For queries, please contact admin@teachingandlearning.ie JTNDc3R5bGUlM0UlMEElMjAlMjAudHJpYmUtZXZlbnRzLWMtc3Vic2NyaWJlLWRyb3Bkb3duJTIwJTdCJTIwJTBBJTIwJTIwJTIwJTIwZGlzcGxheSUzQSUyMG5vbmUlMjAlMjFpbXBvcnRhbnQlM0IlMjAlMEElMjAlMjAlN0QlMEElM0MlMkZzdHlsZSUzRQ==

HEA Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series – Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland
2025-10-10 13:00 - 14:00 (Europe/Dublin)
About This Event
As part of the Higher Education Authority (HEA) Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series, this session will showcase how the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) is embedding ESD across teaching, research, programme design, and institutional practice. The session will highlight the impact of projects and innovative initiatives that are shaping sustainability education at RCSI.

Speakers
Dr Aisling O’Leary – Senior Lecturer, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences
“Developing and delivering a dedicated module on Sustainability and Planetary Health to undergraduate Pharmacy students” Dr Ross Brannigan – Lecturer, Dept Public Health & Epidemiology, School of Population Health
“Integrating Planetary Health in to Medicine Curriculum” Dr Graeme Kelly – Senior Technician, Department of Chemistry
“Sustainable Development through the RCSI Student engagement and Partnership (StEP) Programme” Professor Gozie Offiah, Senior Lecturer and the Director of Curriculum, School of Medicine
“Advancing Inclusive and Equitable healthcare education for the future”

Who Should Attend?
This session is open to everyone with an interest in ESD in higher education, including educators, researchers, institutional leaders, students, and all those who support teaching and learning
Registration
Registration is open at https://hub.teachingandlearning.ie/esd-spotlight-series/

For enquiries, email mkelly@hea.ie.
About the ESD Spotlight Series
This event is part of the HEA Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Spotlight Series, featuring contributions from 20 higher education institutions across the Island of Ireland. The series highlights innovative approaches to embedding ESD in teaching, research, and campus practices. Aligned with the Second National Strategy on Education for Sustainable Development – ESD to 2030 (DFHERIS/DoE/DCEDIY) and the UNESCO ESD Framework to 2030, it supports collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the integration of Education for Sustainable Development across the higher education sector.

Commuter Student Experience in Ireland - Guides and Report Launch
2025-10-17 13:00 - 14:00 UTC
During 2024-2025, Prof. Liz Thomas (University of York) led a research project exploring commuter students’ experiences and changes for HEIs to consider that would improve their experiences and outcomes. This project was delivered under the N-TUTORR Student Empowerment program (2022-2025), co-led by Dr Carina Ginty (ATU) and Dr Moira Maguire (DKIT) and supported by TUA and the HEA.

It addressed the questions:

How does being a commuter student impact on student experiences and outcomes in higher education institutions in Ireland?
How can higher education institutions improve the experience and outcomes of commuter students?

It found that some fundamental changes are required within higher education institutions to engage and support commuter students effectively. All institutions, however, are encouraged to implement the quick wins guide as we commence the new academic year. Further guides are available to access below and include:

Being a Commuter Student in Ireland
What Commuter Students Want
Quick Wins Guide for Commuter Students

The Commuter Student Experience in Ireland Report will be launched on October 17th (online) with Prof. Liz Thomas. All are welcome across the sector to join this lunchtime webinar. You can register to attend here
