Assessment - A series for those interested in locally devised assessment

Please note that this is a repeat of the Assessment suite of events that were offered in Spring/Autumn/Winter 2022 and 2023. 

This is a series of five weekly online sessions that will deal with the following: 

1. An Introduction to Locally Devised Assessment
2. Devising Assessment Briefs and Examination Questions (Locally Devised Assessment)
3. Devising Marking Schemes (Locally Devised Assessment)
4. Marking Learner Assessment Evidence
5. Feedback to Learners on Summative Assessment Tasks

Participants are welcome to attend any or all of the sessions in this series. However, ideally participants would attend all five sessions to maximise their learning about local assessment.

The target audience for this series is: Assessors new to the area of FET and engaged in a locally devised assessment process. However, the sessions may also appeal to those who wish to refresh their understanding of assessment and/or those tasked with supporting/informing the assessment process locally. Please see further information on the target audience for each of the five sessions below. 

Facilitation: This series will be facilitated by Mary Sheehy (FESS).

Please note: Pre-booking is essential. Please do not book onto an event unless you are sure that you will attend / have approval to attend (if required). If an emergency arises, please inform us ASAP (cpdcancellations@fess.ie) as we operate a waiting list system and if time allows we can offer your booked place to another person.

 An Introduction to Locally Devised Assessment
 Tuesday, 20 February 2024 - 10.00 to 12.00

Please note: This is a repeat of the assessment suite of CPD events offered previously. 

The focus of this online session is on supporting the assessor working in a further education and training environment, where the assessor is required to develop local
assessment instruments and related documentation. The following topics will be covered:

• An overview of the assessment process, including key milestones
• Ensuring an understanding of the standard associated with levels 1 – 6 of the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ)
• The role of the assessor in the assessment process

The target audience for this session is: those assessing learners for the first time, using locally devised assessment instruments.

A link to this online session will be emailed in advance. 
Please keep an eye on your Junk/Spam folder in case the e-mail with the link to the online session ends up there.

 Devising Assessment Briefs and Examination Questions (Locally  Devised Assessment)
 Tuesday 27 February 2024 - 10.00 to 12.00

Please note: This is a repeat of the assessment suite of CPD events offered previously.

The focus of this online session is on supporting the assessor working in a further education and training environment, where the assessor is required to devise local assessment briefs (NFQ levels 1 to 6) and examination papers (NFQ levels 4 to 6). 

The target audience for this session is: those assessing learners for the first time, using locally devised assessment instruments.

A link to this online session will be emailed in advance. 
Please keep an eye on your Junk/Spam folder in case the e-mail with the link to the online session ends up there.

 Devising Marking Schemes (Locally Devised Assessment)
 Tuesday 5 March 2024 - 10.00 to 12.00

Please note: This is a repeat of the assessment suite of CPD events offered previously. 

The focus of this online session is on devising marking schemes and outline solutions, as part of local assessment, at NFQ levels 4 – 6, for both assessment briefs and examination papers.

The target audience for this event is: those assessing learners for the first time, using local assessment.

A link to this online session will be emailed in advance. 
Please keep an eye on your Junk/Spam folder in case the e-mail with the link to the online session ends up there.

 Marking Learner Assessment Evidence
 Tuesday 12 March 2024 - 10.00 to 12.00

Please note: This is a repeat of the assessment suite of CPD events offered previously.

This online session will focus on:

• Marking and quality assurance
• Marking learners’ assessment work - making assessment judgements/decisions and recording marking and marks
• Striving for consistency in assessment - internally and with national standards

The target audience for this session is: those marking learners’ summative assessment evidence. In addition, this event is targeted at those who have a role in
supporting the assessment process, within the provider.

A link to this online session will be emailed in advance. 
Please keep an eye on your Junk/Spam folder in case the e-mail with the link to the online session ends up there.

 Feedback to Learners on Summative Assessment Tasks
 Tuesday 19 March 2024 - 10.00 to 12.00

Please note: This is a repeat of the assessment suite of CPD events offered previously.

The focus of this online session is to support assessors in giving meaningful learner feedback on summative assessment tasks. This live online session will tease out the purpose,
approaches, principles, strategies, benefits and challenges associated with giving feedback to learners.

It will also provide space for participants to explore, discuss and share their experiences of what works well when providing learners with feedback on their summative assessment tasks.

The target audience for this session is: FET assessors or those in a co-ordination and/or quality assurance role.

A link to this online session will be emailed in advance. 
Please keep an eye on your Junk/Spam folder in case the e-mail with the link to the online session ends up there.

Follow-up Assessment Clinic

 This one hour online clinic is designed as a follow-up  support to complement the recently delivered suite of 5 PD sessions focusing on locally devised assessment. This clinic will provide an opportunity for FET practitioners to pose any locally-devised assessment questions and queries that they may have. An informal approach will be adopted for this session where the clinic will be participant-led, which will allow for the sharing and discussion of ideas. These clinics will be hosted on Zoom and the link will be emailed to participants in advance of the event. 

Tuesday 23 April - 16.00 to 17.00

Clear Writing for Developing Programmes and Assessment (Plain English)' NALA

Please Note: This is a repeat of a session delivered in November 2023

This session will show how the NALA plain English guidelines https://www.nala.ie/publications/a-plain-english-checklist-for-documents/ can help you to keep your written message clear, concise and effective.

The interactive workshop will look at best practice and use authentic examples from FET programmes and FET assessment instruments.

This is an interactive session. Participants are asked to be ready to ask and answer lots of questions to reflect on how we communicate with our learners.

The target audience for this event is: All FET staff members, including teachers, tutors, trainers, instructors and those in a co-ordination and/or quality assurance role.

Facilitation: This session will be facilitated by Sean Driver, Plain English Editor and Trainer in the National Adult Literacy Agency. With over 5 years-experience training thousands of people across the public and private sectors, Sean works to empower people to put the needs of their readers first. Clients include Citizens Information, ETBs, SOLAS, QQI and many others.

Please note: Pre-booking is essential. Please do not book onto this session unless you are sure that you will attend / have approval to attend (if required). If an emergency arises, please inform us ASAP (cpdcancellations@fess.ie) as we operate a waiting list system and if time allows, we can offer your booked place to another person.

Wednesday 28 February 2024 - 14.00 to 16.30

A link to this online event will be emailed in advance. 
Please keep an eye on your Junk/Spam folder in case the e-mail with the link to the online event ends up there.

 Artificial Intelligence (AI), What is it and what are the opportunities and challenges for FET?

A similar session was run in October 2023, this session will included updated information as the area of AI is fast-moving 

In the last year, there has been a huge interest in the profound potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within the realm of Further Education and Training. This presentation will cover the basics of AI, demystifying its core concepts and exploring its real-world applications. We will focus on BingChat, an advanced AI language model through the lens of a FET teacher or tutor. AI can  assist educators, administrators, and students alike, providing personalized support, generating educational content, and promoting engagement. But AI in education is not just about convenience; it's also about the opportunities and challenges it presents to educators. Explore the vast potential for AI to streamline administrative tasks, enhance teaching materials, and adapt learning experiences to individual student needs. We will discuss the challenges and potential threats AI poses to educators in the FET sector, addressing concerns about job displacement and the changing role of teachers/tutors/trainers. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on the future of education where AI and human educators collaborate to create more effective and personalized learning environments. Discover how you can harness the power of AI to elevate your teaching practices and unlock new possibilities in Further Education and Training.

Facilitation: John Heffernan (Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim ETB) and Susan Dunne (Tipperary ETB)

John Heffernan is the MSLETB as Professional Development co-ordinator. John's career, prior to teaching was in IT, working for a number of start up companies. He has taught or worked in ed tech for more that twenty years including two years as a PLC teacher.

Susan Dunne brings 13 years of experience as an educator in post-primary education, teaching Business, Accountancy, and IT.  She was part of one of the first schools to achieve recognition as a Microsoft School of Excellence in Ireland.Over the past four years, Susan ventured into Further Education, where she teaches QQI Level 4 and 5 courses. Within her teaching, she uses OneNote E-portfolio extensively for teaching and assessment purposes. Alongside her practical teaching experience, she holds a postgraduate qualification in Special Educational Needs. Her enthusiasm for technology is constant and she continually explores innovative ways to incorporate it into her teaching practices.Throughout her career, she has dedicated time to enhancing her pedagogical skills, delving into various teaching methodologies, including Assessment for Learning and becoming a Universal Design for Learning (UDL) facilitator.

Please note: Pre-booking is essential. Please do not book onto this session unless you are sure that you will attend / have approval to attend (if required). If an emergency arises, please inform us ASAP (cpdcancellations@fess.ie) as we operate a waiting list system and if time allows, we can offer your booked place to another person.

Thursday, 29th February 2024 - 14.00 to 16.00

A link to this online event will be emailed in advance. 
Please keep an eye on your Junk/Spam folder in case the e-mail with the link to the online event ends up there.

Growing and Promoting RPL in ETB FET Provision

Many Providers in FET are struggling to develop and promote RPL as a mainstream offering in their ETB. Patsy Hogan, QA Officer with Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board, will explain how RPL has grown from small discrete projects in Limerick and Clare ETB to widely offering RPL as a mainstream strand of provision through policy development, staff training and promoting awareness.

 The session will focus on broadly answering the following questions:
• Where do we start with development of RPL in our ETB?
• How can we develop a meaningful policy and support materials?
• What training and support is available to potential RPL practitioners?
• How do the EU Guidelines on Validating Non-formal and Informal Learning support ETBs?
• Do ETBs have an RPL budget?
• How do systems such as PLSS and the QQI Business System (QBS) support RPL?

There will be time for Q&A and group discussion on these topics during the session and the session is intended to be informative, supportive and interactive.

The target audience for this event is: FET staff members, especially those in a management/co-ordination and/or quality assurance role who have a particular interest in RPL promotion and/or development in their ETB.

Facilitation: Patsy Hogan, Quality Assurance Officer, Limerick and Clare ETB. Patsy has been actively involved in the RPL space for a number of years. She has been instrumental in placing Limerick and Clare ETB at the forefront of RPL practice in Ireland. Patsy has developed a RPL professional development course which is run internally in her ETB and has also been attended by colleagues from other ETBs. She has also taken a lead role in RPL policy development, promotion, support and awareness both in her own ETB and in national and European projects.

Please note: Pre-booking is essential. Please do not book onto this session unless you are sure that you will attend / have approval to attend (if required). If an emergency arises, please inform us ASAP (cpdcancellations@fess.ie) as we operate a waiting list system and if time allows, we can offer your booked place to another person.

Wednesday 6 March 2024 - 10.00 to 12.00 

A link to this online event will be emailed in advance. 
Please keep an eye on your Junk/Spam folder in case the e-mail with the link to the online event ends up there.

Supporting Executive Functioning in FET

Executive functioning skills include our ability to plan, to manage our time, to be organised, to prioritise and to maintain motivation and persistence, amongst lots of other things. Do you have learners who just can't seem to get work completed, or in on time. Do they find it difficult to prioritise? Are they struggling with meeting deadlines in their daily lives or in your classroom? These skills do not always come easy to everyone. However, these skills are exceptionally challenging for many learners who are neurodivergent. Although this workshop is not only for those working with neurodivergent learners, it will examine the importance of scaffolding and teaching executive functioning skills to neurodivergent learners. In the true spirit of UDL, creating an environment supportive of neurodivergent learners with executive functioning challenges, will create an environment that is supportive of all.

Through a Universal Design for Learning lens, by the end of this hands-on and interactive workshop, participants will be able to:
• Define and discuss executive functioning.
• Identify and share ways that our colleges and centres do and can support executive functioning skills.
• Identify and share ways that we, as educators, do and can support executive functioning skills in the classroom.
• Create opportunities in teaching, learning and assessment activities where executive functioning skills can be further supported and enhanced.

Target audience: All FET educators (including but not exclusive to those working with neurodivergent learners).

Facilitation: This session will be facilitated by Carrie Archer. Carrie lectures on postgraduate programmes for FET specifically in the area of Diversity and Inclusion. She is a qualified special education and inclusive education teacher and has worked in the FET sector for the past 15 years. She is a qualified education leadership coach and specialises in the area of ADHD. She is a keen advocate for the use of UDL in education, from classroom to staffroom to boardroom and beyond to meet the needs of all.

Please note: Pre-booking is essential. Please do not book onto this session unless you are sure that you will attend / have approval to attend (if required). If an emergency arises, please inform us ASAP (cpdcancellations@fess.ie) as we operate a waiting list system and if time allows, we can offer your booked place to another person.

Further Information, Date and Time 

Monday 11 March 2024 - 14.00 to 16.00

A link to this online event will be emailed in advance. 
Please keep an eye on your Junk/Spam folder in case the e-mail with the link to the online event ends up there.

The Science of ‘Bouncibility’ – How to Build Resilience within Ourselves

Life is an imperfect journey and crisis is guaranteed. There will always be setbacks and misfortunes. Resilience is the ability to adapt to the challenges of life. It’s about bouncing back rather than falling apart. If you are strong in resilience you have this ‘bouncibility’ and can harness your inner strengths and coping mechanisms. Others need to learn the skills at the heart of resiliency. If life is full of challenges then we need to know how to not only withstand the pressure but to thrive in adversity.

If you are low in resilience, you will focus too much on your problems and deficits and be overwhelmed during challenges. You will be drawn towards unhealthy conclusions and become more vulnerable instead of stronger. Becoming more resilient will not mean that problems disappear. It does not mean that you have to become ‘as hard as nails’. Resilience is more about learning how to cope – tapping into our own resources and fostering inner-strengths in order to stay ‘standing’ during and after crisis.

Science has uncovered specific traits/factors that can be utilised at work and in our lives in general. This seminar outlines evidence-based strategies linked to greater outcomes during challenge and change.

The target audience for this event is: All FET staff members.

Facilitation: Shane Martin C.Psychol.Ps.S.I., Chartered Psychologist of the Psychological Society of Ireland
Shane Martin is a psychologist dedicated to teaching the very best evidence-based psychology to help people protect their mental health and enhance the quality of their lives.
A leader within the area of education he has visited hundreds of schools throughout the island of Ireland working with management teams, teachers, students and parents promoting a psychology of health, happiness and resilience. He has been a keynote speaker at numerous national educational conferences including NAHTNI, NAPD, ACCS, IPPN, INTO, JMB and PDA. Shane addressed the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Education and Skills on the important topic of Positive Mental Health in Schools.
His ‘Moodwatchers’ psychology course has been delivered at community venues throughout the length and breadth of Ireland and he has been a keynote speaker at conferences in Ireland and abroad on a range of topics around empowerment, recovery and happiness.

Please note: Pre-booking is essential. Please do not book onto this session unless you are sure that you will attend / have approval to attend (if required). If an emergency arises, please inform us ASAP (cpdcancellations@fess.ie) as we operate a waiting list system and if time allows, we can offer your booked place to another person.

Further Information, Date and Time 

Thursday 14 March 2024 - 10.00 to 12.00

A link to this online event will be emailed in advance. 
Please keep an eye on your Junk/Spam folder in case the e-mail with the link to the online event ends up there.

AI for Teaching, Learning and Assessment in FET

Rapid advances in generative AI present significant opportunities and challenges for society and for education providers. In FET the opportunities include harnessing AI to support planning and teaching and utilising AI tools to support learners throughout their learning journeys. Challenges include addressing concerns about academic integrity and developing a strategic approach to AI use which focuses on ethics and criticality. In this workshop we will detail how the TEL and QA support services in LCETB College of FET came together to develop a coordinated strategic approach to the adoption and use of AI. The approach adopted involved initial awareness raising, the development of guidelines on AI use in assessment, and the rollout of CPD initiatives focused on AI and assessment and the critical exploration of AI tools.

Target audience: All FET educators and particularly those involved in assessment of learners includinf QA staff.

Facilitation: Máire Lynch and Dr Brendan Ryan

Máire Lynch is a QA Officer with Limerick and Clare ETB with responsibility for curriculum development and review, new programme development and quality assuring teaching, learning and assessment across the organisation. Máire previously worked in industry before taking up a teaching position with the former VECs and worked extensively in classroom and co-ordination roles before moving into the area of quality assurance. She was part of the national working group responsible for the development of the FET Referencing Handbook and Academic Writing Handbook for Learners. Areas of particular interest include incorporating UDL Principles into teaching, learning and assessment at all NFQ levels, use of Plain English tools and facilitating AI practices to enhance teaching, learning and assessment.

Dr Brendan Ryan has worked in Adult and Further Education for over thirty years and as a Learning Technologist for over twenty of those years. In his role with Limerick and Clare ETB Further Education and Training (FET) Division he leads up the Technology Enhanced Learning (TEL) Support Service. Brendan has extensive teaching and research experience and recently completed a PhD study focused on embedding criticality in Learning Technology Professional Development.

Please note: Pre-booking is essential. Please do not book onto this session unless you are sure that you will attend / have approval to attend (if required). If an emergency arises, please inform us ASAP (cpdcancellations@fess.ie) as we operate a waiting list system and if time allows, we can offer your booked place to another person.

Further Information, Date and Time

Thursday 11 April 2024 - 14.00 to 16.00

A link to this online event will be emailed in advance. 
Please keep an eye on your Junk/Spam folder in case the e-mail with the link to the online event ends up there.

Machine Vs Machine - AI and Assessment

In this professional learning session for teachers, we'll delve into the fascinating realm of AI in assessment. Together, we'll examine its utilization and effectiveness, uncovering both the challenges it faces and the areas where it excels or falls short. Our exploration will commence with an in-depth look at the essence of AI and its various applications in assessment. From the rigidity of closed, proctored exams to the flexibility of open-book assessments, we'll dissect examples that span the spectrum. We'll delve into critical questions: Can its presence be easily identified? These inquiries will guide our discussion as we dissect the nuances of AI detection and explore the evolving strategies students employ to evade detection. Join us as we navigate the complexities of AI in assessment, equipping ourselves with the knowledge and insights necessary to adapt and thrive in an increasingly technologically driven educational landscape.

Target audience: All FET educators, particularly those who are involved in the assessment of learners as well as QA staff.

Facilitation: This session will be facilitated by Dr Keith Quille who is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Enterprise Computing and Digital Transformation in TU Dublin. Keith's' primary area of research is in Computer Science Education (with an emphasis on inclusion) which spans third, second and primary levels. The main focus of Keith's' research at third level (including my PhD) was the early identification of students who were at risk of failing or dropping out of Computer Science (using machine learning techniques), as well as interventions to try and reduce attrition rates. Keith's' research also focuses on gender and inclusion, with an aim to reduce stereotypes and promote the Computer Science discipline across all levels of education. Keith's primary area of teaching is in Software Development, (CS1 and CS2) and Applied Machine Learning with Artificial Intelligence. Keith is the program coordinator of TU862 Computing with AI and ML undergraduate. Keith has also developed, delivered and coordinated a wide range of other modules. To complement Keith's' Computer Science Education research at third level, Keith has also been significantly involved in primary and second level Computer Science Education, from the Governmental level to formal and informal teacher professional development, to leading a large-scale national, primary and second level Computer Science outreach and research programme (http://CSinc.ie). Keith was also a secondary school and further education teacher for 7 years in St Conleth's Community College, in Newbridge, Co Kildare. Keith is also a part time software developer in webuildweb.

Please note: Pre-booking is essential. Please do not book onto this session unless you are sure that you will attend / have approval to attend (if required). If an emergency arises, please inform us ASAP (cpdcancellations@fess.ie) as we operate a waiting list system and if time allows, we can offer your booked place to another person.

Further Information, Date and Time

Monday 15 April 2024 - 10.00 to 12.00

A link to this online event will be emailed in advance. 
Please keep an eye on your Junk/Spam folder in case the e-mail with the link to the online event ends up there.

Active Teaching and Learning
Visual Thinking, Mapping & Framing Techniques

This online workshop will introduce some visual thinking tools and techniques to support FET learners develop ideas for projects, reports and presentations e.g. map initial ideas, research a topic, find relevant keywords etc.

The workshop is hands-on and will take participants through the process of selecting and using different tools, and exploring possible uses and applications.
NOTE- Material Needed: participants need to bring a few large sheets of paper (A3) and some coloured pens to the workshop

The target audience for this event is: FET staff members, especially those in a management/co-ordination and/or quality assurance role who have a particular interest in RPL promotion and/or development in their ETB.

Facilitation: Miriam is an independent facilitator, trainer and consultant with a strong background and experience of working in Education both nationally and internationally that includes teaching, lecturing and training roles at Primary, Post-primary, Further Education and Training, and Higher Education (Teacher Education) levels. Miriam has also held senior management roles in Curriculum Development, Professional Development and Education Support Services.

Please note: Pre-booking is essential. Please do not book onto this session unless you are sure that you will attend / have approval to attend (if required). If an emergency arises, please inform us ASAP (cpdcancellations@fess.ie) as we operate a waiting list system and if time allows, we can offer your booked place to another person.

Further Information, Date and Time

Monday 15 April 2024 - 14.00 to 16.00

A link to this online event will be emailed in advance. 
Please keep an eye on your Junk/Spam folder in case the e-mail with the link to the online event ends up there.

Unlocking the Potential of Rubrics in Teaching, Learning and Assessment

Please note: This event is a repeat of a previous FESS PD event on 'Unlocking the Potential of Rubrics in Teaching, Learning and Assessment' first delivered online in Spring and Autumn/Winter 2022 and 2023.

This online event aims to assist FET staff in the development and use of rubrics to support teaching, learning and assessment activities. This is an interactive event where participants will be provided with information, have the opportunity to engage in discussion and participate in a rubric development workshop.

This event will:

• Provide an overview of what we mean by rubrics
• Explore the purpose, types and benefits of rubrics
• Explore the use and relevance of rubrics for teaching, learning and assessment
• Provide participants with the opportunity to begin the development of a rubric
• Provide the opportunity to share some examples of rubrics for different purposes.

Learning together in this event will help us to consider the range of possibilities rubrics can bring to teaching, learning and assessment.

The target audience for this event is: FET staff including teachers, tutors, trainers, programme co-ordinators and QA staff.

Facilitation: This event will be facilitated by Mary Sheehy (FESS).

Please note: Pre-booking is essential. Please do not book onto this event unless you are sure that you will attend / have approval to attend (if required). If an emergency arises, please inform us ASAP (cpdcancellations@fess.ie) as we operate a waiting list system and if time allows we can offer your booked place to another person.

Tuesday 16 April 2024 - 10.00 to 12.00

A link to this online event will be emailed in advance. 
Please keep an eye on your Junk/Spam folder in case the e-mail with the link to the online event ends up there.

Enhancing Our Sense of Team: An Evidence-based Approach

Working with other people doesn’t mean that you’re working as a team. Real teamwork implies collaboration, communication, and acknowledgment of a common purpose.

Grouping people together doesn’t mean you have a team. Teams are, in fact, a very particular kind of group in that they’re interdependent and focused on structure and activities. At a minimum, a team should be a cooperative unit and, at its best, a team is a collaborative unit. How can we harness an authentic sense of team? How can we initiate and sustain a sense of team? Are there any scientifically proven strategies that can make teams better at teamwork?

The target audience for this event is: All FET staff members.

Facilitation: Shane Martin C.Psychol.Ps.S.I., Chartered Psychologist of the Psychological Society of Ireland

Shane Martin is a psychologist dedicated to teaching the very best evidence-based psychology to help people protect their mental health and enhance the quality of their lives.
A leader within the area of education he has visited hundreds of schools throughout the island of Ireland working with management teams, teachers, students and parents promoting a psychology of health, happiness and resilience. He has been a keynote speaker at numerous national educational conferences including NAHTNI, NAPD, ACCS, IPPN, INTO, JMB and PDA. Shane addressed the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Education and Skills on the important topic of Positive Mental Health in Schools.
His ‘Moodwatchers’ psychology course has been delivered at community venues throughout the length and breadth of Ireland and he has been a keynote speaker at conferences in Ireland and abroad on a range of topics around empowerment, recovery and happiness.

Please note: Pre-booking is essential. Please do not book onto this session unless you are sure that you will attend / have approval to attend (if required). If an emergency arises, please inform us ASAP (cpdcancellations@fess.ie) as we operate a waiting list system and if time allows, we can offer your booked place to another person.

 Further Information, Dates and Times

Wednesday 24 April 2024 - 10.00 to 12.00

A link to this online session will be emailed in advance. 
Please keep an eye on your Junk/Spam folder in case the e-mail with the link to the online session ends up there.

How to Maintain Wellbeing this Academic Year

In a world with many stresses and weapons of mass distraction, wellbeing and self-care needs to be part of your every day. Wellbeing is about being happy, healthy and comfortable in who you are. This course will introduce you to 3 key practical tips that you can easily implement in your daily life to help you create and maintain strong wellbeing this academic year and beyond.

The session will cover:
· The 12 pillars of wellbeing and how to strengthen them.
· Self-care and giving quality time to yourself.
· Stress and how to manage it effectively.
· Introduction to relaxation practices for the mind and energising practices for the body.
· 3 tips to help you maintain strong wellbeing and live a happier and healthier life.

In this session, participants will:
1. Use tools to slow down and enjoy quality relaxation.

2. Gain an understanding of the different pillars of wellbeing and how to strengthen them.

3. Access a menu of different tips to help them effectively manage stress and lead lives with the right work life balance for them.

The target audience for this session is: FET staff including management, teachers, tutors, trainers, programme coordinators, guidance counsellors, learning support staff and wellbeing officers.

Facilitation:  This session will be facilitated by Calodagh McCumiskey. She is an accredited master practitioner in Wellbeing and Coaching. Clients include the County Wexford Chamber Skillnet, Wexford Co. Council, WWETB, Integer, Danone, The Riverside Park Hotel and various Education Centres from around Ireland.  She has a background in Aid Work and worked in high stress environments in the aftermath of man-made and natural disasters for 14 years.  Calodagh won the solo businessperson of the year in the Network Ireland Wexford Awards in 2023 and was runner up in the National Competition.  For more information, visit: www.spiritualearth.com.

Please note: Pre-booking is essential. Please do not book onto this session unless you are sure that you will attend / have approval to attend (if required). If an emergency arises, please inform us ASAP (cpdcancellations@fess.ie) as we operate a waiting list system and if time allows, we can offer your booked place to another person.

Thursday 19 September 2024 - 10.00 to 12.00

A link to this online event will be emailed in advance. 
Please keep an eye on your Junk/Spam folder in case the e-mail with the link to the online event ends up there.

      Assessment - A self-directed online course on Locally Devising Assessment

NEW!

FESS has developed this new resource to support new assessors to navigate their way through assessment for the first time. The resource focuses on the assessment of learners who are following further education and training programmes or FET programmes that lead to QQI certification at NFQ levels 1 to 6. The specific focus of the resource is on summative assessment in a locally devised assessment process which means that the detail in the resource is targeted towards assessors who are tasked with devising their own assessment briefs, examination papers and related documentation so that they can assess learners for certification purposes.

The resource is divided into five modules. Each module is divided into a number of units, and each unit is divided into sections. The five modules are:

1. Quality Assuring Assessment
2. Understanding the Standard
3. Devising Assessment
4. Marking Learner Assessment Evidence
5. Considerations for an Assessor

To access the course, click here

A tutorial document to help you create your account, enrol on the course, complete the course and download your digital certificate can be downloaded here 

A short video tutorial to guide you through the process of creating an account and enrolling yourself in the course can be accessed here, it is slightly over 5 minutes long

Please Note: The content of this course is similar to the content delivered previously online on the Assessment Suite that was offered as 5 x 2 hour online sessions. 

The target audience for this series is: Assessors new to the area of FET and engaged in a locally devised assessment process. However, the sessions may also appeal to those who wish to refresh their understanding of assessment and/or those tasked with supporting/informing the assessment process locally. 

Facilitation: This course has been developed by FESS to provide participants with the opportunity to engage in a self-directed online course that can be undertaken at the participant's own pace and at a time that is convenient to them. Assessment clinics to support those participating on the online course will be provided by FESS.

Please note: To access the course, you will have to follow the steps in the tutorial:

• Access www.fesslearning.ie 
• Create an account - email and password and email will be verified 
• Enrol on the Locally Devised Assessment course - by clicking enrol, see tutorial
• Complete each of the five modules in sequence
• Download your Certificate of Completion and save for your own records 

Assessment Clinic

This one hour online clinic is designed as a follow-up support to allow participants who are completing or have completed the online Locally Devised Assessment course to pose any questions and queries that they may have as a result of engaging with the online course. An informal approach will be adopted for this session where the clinic will be participant-led, which will allow for the sharing and discussion of ideas. These clinics will be hosted on Zoom and the link will be emailed to participants in advance of the event. 

Tuesday 24 September - 16.00 to 17.00

Assessment Clinic

This one hour online clinic is designed as a follow-up support to allow participants who are completing or have completed the online Locally Devised Assessment course to pose any questions and queries that they may have as a result of engaging with the online course. An informal approach will be adopted for this session where the clinic will be participant-led, which will allow for the sharing and discussion of ideas. These clinics will be hosted on Zoom and the link will be emailed to participants in advance of the event. 

Wednesday 9 October - 16.00 to 17.00

Assessment Clinic

This one hour online clinic is designed as a follow-up support to allow participants who are completing or have completed the online Locally Devised Assessment course to pose any questions and queries that they may have as a result of engaging with the online course. An informal approach will be adopted for this session where the clinic will be participant-led, which will allow for the sharing and discussion of ideas. These clinics will be hosted on Zoom and the link will be emailed to participants in advance of the event. 

Thursday 24 October - 16.00 to 17.00

Assessment Clinic

This one hour online clinic is designed as a follow-up support to allow participants who are completing or have completed the online Locally Devised Assessment course to pose any questions and queries that they may have as a result of engaging with the online course. An informal approach will be adopted for this session where the clinic will be participant-led, which will allow for the sharing and discussion of ideas. These clinics will be hosted on Zoom and the link will be emailed to participants in advance of the event. 

Tuesday 5 November - 16.00 to 17.00

Assessment Clinic

This one hour online clinic is designed as a follow-up support to allow participants who are completing or have completed the online Locally Devised Assessment course to pose any questions and queries that they may have as a result of engaging with the online course. An informal approach will be adopted for this session where the clinic will be participant-led, which will allow for the sharing and discussion of ideas. These clinics will be hosted on Zoom and the link will be emailed to participants in advance of the event. 

Wednesday 20 November - 16.00 to 17.00

Assessment Clinic

This one hour online clinic is designed as a follow-up  support to complement the recently delivered suite of 5 PD sessions focusing on locally devised assessment. This clinic will provide an opportunity for FET practitioners to pose any locally-devised assessment questions and queries that they may have. An informal approach will be adopted for this session where the clinic will be participant-led, which will allow for the sharing and discussion of ideas. These clinics will be hosted on Zoom and the link will be emailed to participants in advance of the event. 

Thursday 5 December - 16.00 to 17.00

What do we mean by Recognition of Prior Learning

Recognition of Prior Learning may be perceived as being ‘new’ and difficult to implement.

This session will challenge these perceptions by providing:
- an overview and background information on Recognition of Prior Learning
- an outline of the push and pull factors that has shaped the development of RPL in Europe and
Ireland
- a brief overview of RPL practice in Ireland
- the role and importance of experiential learning in supporting how adults learn
- a case study that maps the RPL journey for a cohort of learners. The case study will include an
outline of RPL assessment techniques and the roles and responsibilities of FET staff at each
stage of the process.

The target audience for this session is: FET staff including management, teachers, tutors, trainers, programme coordinators, guidance counsellors, learning support staff and wellbeing officers.

Facilitation: Martina has more than 20 years’ experience with the Further Education and Training (FET) sector in Ireland. As Adult Education Officer with Donegal Education and Training Board (ETB), validation or recognition of prior learning (RPL) was a key feature of her work in supporting lifelong learning and social inclusion. She worked on a number of validation projects and initiatives including: the TOBAR project (Defence Forces), validation of transversal skills for low qualified employees in the food processing industry, and supported individuals and groups through the validation process. Martina worked to ensure that RPL provision was underpinned by quality processes and was involved with the development of a toolkit of resources to support the FET sector implement RPL as a part of their provision. Martina was a member of the RPL Practitioner Network National Steering Group and, more recently, a member of the organising committee for the 5th VPL Biennale which was held in Kilkenny in May. She currently provides support, training and guidance to providers who wish to embed validation of non-formal and informal learning as part of their provision.

Please note: Pre-booking is essential. Please do not book onto this session unless you are sure that you will attend / have approval to attend (if required). If an emergency arises, please inform us ASAP (cpdcancellations@fess.ie) as we operate a waiting list system and if time allows, we can offer your booked place to another person.

Tuesday 1 October 2024 - 10.00 to 12.00

A link to this online event will be emailed in advance. 
Please keep an eye on your Junk/Spam folder in case the e-mail with the link to the online event ends up there.

Artificial Intelligence (AI), What is it and what are the opportunities and challenges for FET?

A similar session was run in October 2023 and Spring 2024, this session will included updated information as the area of AI is fast-moving 

In the last year, there has been a huge interest in the profound potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within the realm of Further Education and Training. This presentation will cover the basics of AI, demystifying its core concepts and exploring its real-world applications. We will focus on BingChat, an advanced AI language model through the lens of a FET teacher or tutor. AI can  assist educators, administrators, and students alike, providing personalized support, generating educational content, and promoting engagement. But AI in education is not just about convenience; it's also about the opportunities and challenges it presents to educators. Explore the vast potential for AI to streamline administrative tasks, enhance teaching materials, and adapt learning experiences to individual student needs. We will discuss the challenges and potential threats AI poses to educators in the FET sector, addressing concerns about job displacement and the changing role of teachers/tutors/trainers. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on the future of education where AI and human educators collaborate to create more effective and personalized learning environments. Discover how you can harness the power of AI to elevate your teaching practices and unlock new possibilities in Further Education and Training.

Facilitation: John Heffernan (Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim ETB) and Susan Dunne (Tipperary ETB)

John Heffernan is the Professional Development Co-ordinator for Mayo Sligo Leitrim ETB. John's career, prior to teaching was in IT, working for a number of start-up companies. He has taught or worked in education technology for more than twenty years, including two years as a PLC teacher. He has been involved in AI in Education with a number of organisations for a number of years. He is on the executive of CESI (Computers in Education Society of Ireland) which is the Subject Association for Computer Science and technology in education. He was previously TEL coordinator with Tipperary ETB. He was recently awarded one of the ISTE 20 to watch for 2024.

Susan Dunne brings 13 years of experience as an educator in post-primary education, teaching Business, Accountancy, and IT. During her time in post-primary education, she was a coordinator for programs such as LCA, LCVP, TY, and IT. She was part of one of the first schools to achieve recognition as a Microsoft School of Excellence in Ireland.
Over the past five years, Susan ventured into Further Education, where she teaches QQI Level 4 and 5 courses. Within her teaching, she uses OneNote E-portfolio extensively for teaching and assessment purposes. Alongside her practical teaching experience, she holds a postgraduate qualification in Special Educational Needs. Her enthusiasm for technology is constant and she continually explores innovative ways to incorporate it into her teaching practices. 
Throughout her career, she has dedicated time to enhancing her pedagogical skills, delving into various teaching methodologies, including Assessment for Learning and becoming a Universal Design for Learning (UDL) facilitator. Currently, she is actively involved in the development team for the new Leaving Certificate Business Studies course with the NCCA.

Wednesday 2 October 2024 - 14.00 to 16.00

A link to this online event will be emailed in advance. 
Please keep an eye on your Junk/Spam folder in case the e-mail with the link to the online event ends up there.

Unlocking the Potential of Rubrics in Teaching, Learning and Assessment

Please note: This event is a repeat of a previous FESS PD event on 'Unlocking the Potential of Rubrics in Teaching, Learning and Assessment' first delivered online in 2022, 2023 and 2024.

This online event aims to assist FET staff in the development and use of rubrics to support teaching, learning and assessment activities. This is an interactive event where participants will be provided with information, have the opportunity to engage in discussion and participate in a rubric development workshop.

This event will:

• Provide an overview of what we mean by rubrics
• Explore the purpose, types and benefits of rubrics
• Explore the use and relevance of rubrics for teaching, learning and assessment
• Provide participants with the opportunity to begin the development of a rubric
• Provide the opportunity to share some examples of rubrics for different purposes.

Learning together in this event will help us to consider the range of possibilities rubrics can bring to teaching, learning and assessment.

The target audience for this event is: FET staff including teachers, tutors, trainers, programme co-ordinators and QA staff.

Facilitation: This event will be facilitated by Mary Sheehy (FESS).

Please note: Pre-booking is essential. Please do not book onto this event unless you are sure that you will attend / have approval to attend (if required). If an emergency arises, please inform us ASAP (cpdcancellations@fess.ie) as we operate a waiting list system and if time allows we can offer your booked place to another person.

Thursday 3 October 2024 - 10.00 to 12.00

A link to this online event will be emailed in advance. 
Please keep an eye on your Junk/Spam folder in case the e-mail with the link to the online event ends up there.

 Creating Connections: Effective Check-In Activities for FET Learning Environments

Check-in activities serve as a bridge between social interactions, discussions, and shared experiences, playing a crucial role in shaping students' perspectives, beliefs, and understanding of contexts around them.

Check-ins are more than just icebreakers; they serve as an opportunity for genuine connection and understanding among students. They help to foster a sense of community, trust, and openness among students and help to create a more inclusive and supportive classroom environment.

Check-ins can be categorised into different types based on their purpose, format, and the information they aim to gather e.g., Emotional Check-Ins, Rapport building Check-ins, Reflection Check-Ins, Goal-Setting Check-Ins, Check-Ins for Feedback etc.

This two-hour interactive workshop will equip FET staff with practical strategies to foster emotional well-being, boost student engagement, and build a strong sense of community within the classroom.

In this session, you will:
· Understand the theoretical foundations of check-in activities, including psychological safety, social-emotional learning (SEL), and emotional intelligence
· Explore a variety of check-in types and techniques that cover verbal, visual and physical activities
· Participate in a range of sample check-in activities and experience firsthand how these exercises can positively impact classroom dynamics
· Gain insights into managing check-ins
· Leave with a toolkit of ready-to-use enjoyable check-in activities and ideas to implement immediately in your teaching practice.

This session is ideal for FET teachers who are eager to create a more connected and supportive learning environment.

The target audience for this session is: FET staff including management, teachers, tutors, trainers, programme coordinators, guidance counsellors, learning support staff and wellbeing officers.

Facilitation: This event will be facilitated by Miriam O’Donoghue. Miriam is an independent facilitator, trainer and consultant with a strong background and experience of working in Education both nationally and internationally that includes teaching, lecturing and training roles at Primary, Post-primary, Further Education and Training, and Higher Education (Teacher Education) levels. Miriam has also held senior management roles in Curriculum Development, Professional Development and Education Support Services.

Please note: Pre-booking is essential. Please do not book onto this session unless you are sure that you will attend / have approval to attend (if required). If an emergency arises, please inform us ASAP (cpdcancellations@fess.ie) as we operate a waiting list system and if time allows, we can offer your booked place to another person.

Thursday, 10 October 2024 - 10.00 to 12.00

A link to this online event will be emailed in advance. 
Please keep an eye on your Junk/Spam folder in case the e-mail with the link to the online event ends up there.

Special Educational Needs in Further Education

Accommodating special educational needs in further education is a crucial aspect of our education system: it is important that our educational institutions ensure that every student, regardless of their abilities, has equal access to opportunities for learning and personal growth.
We will explore the journey of a student with special educational needs, starting from the application process to the organisation of ongoing supports within further education settings. We will examine the policies, procedures, and best practices that underpin this journey, and discuss how these can be effectively implemented to foster an environment where all students can thrive.

Key Areas

1. Application Process:

• Understanding the initial steps for students with special educational needs when applying for further education.
• Key considerations for colleges to ensure a fair and accessible application process.
• Importance of transparent communication and support during this stage.

2. Assessment and Identification of Needs:

• Processes for assessing the specific educational needs of students.
• Carrying out a needs assessment with the student to determine the level of support that the student may require based on the evidence of disability and information obtained from the student on the impact of their disability.
• Legal and ethical considerations in the assessment process.

3. Organising Supports:

• Types of supports available, including academic accommodations, assistive technologies, and personal assistance/notetaking.
• Best practices for implementing and maintaining these supports effectively.
• Role of continuous monitoring and feedback in adapting support to evolving needs.

4. Case Studies and Best Practices:

• Examples of successful accommodation of special educational needs in further education.
• Lessons learned and strategies for overcoming common challenges.
• Innovative approaches and emerging trends in the field.

Our overall aim is to equip you with the knowledge to enhance the educational experiences of students with special educational needs in Further Education with the hope that you will have a deeper understanding of the processes involved, as well as practical insights into creating a supportive and inclusive educational environment.

The target audience for this session is: FET staff including management, teachers, tutors, trainers, programme coordinators, guidance counsellors, learning support staff and wellbeing officers.

Facilitation: This event will be facilitated by Maureen Lynch, Assistant Principal in Cavan Institute and Faela Heavin, Special Educational Needs Teacher in Cavan Institute.
Maureen has worked in Further education for 30 years in Cavan Institute
For the past 15 years, Maureen has served as Assistant Principal at Cavan Institute, with a primary responsibility for overseeing special educational needs. In this role she been involved in shaping and implementing policies that ensure all students receive the support they need to thrive academically and personally.
Faela Heavin is a Special Educational Needs Teacher in Cavan Institute. Faela has over 20 years teaching experience working in the area of Special Educational Needs in both the post- primary sector and in Further Education. Faela is committed to improving the college experience for SEN Learners in Further Education.

Please note: Pre-booking is essential. Please do not book onto this session unless you are sure that you will attend / have approval to attend (if required). If an emergency arises, please inform us ASAP (cpdcancellations@fess.ie) as we operate a waiting list system and if time allows, we can offer your booked place to another person.

Wednesday, 16 October 2024 - 14.00 to 16.00

A link to this online event will be emailed in advance. 
Please keep an eye on your Junk/Spam folder in case the e-mail with the link to the online event ends up there.

Differentiation in the mixed ability classroom

Whether it is Youthreach or adults returning to education, the Further Education classroom presents tutors/teachers/instructors with a diverse cohort of learners with a wide range of learning needs. This session offers teachers an opportunity to reflect on how to differentiate their teaching to respond to this challenge. It includes:
· Exploring how learners differ so as to be able to develop responses to their learning needs.
· Practical strategies to help increase engagement of all learners from the struggling learner to the exceptionally able.
· An opportunity to share practice with colleagues from different schools/centres.

The target audience for this session is: FET staff including management, teachers, tutors, trainers, programme coordinators, guidance counsellors, learning support staff and wellbeing officers.

Facilitation: Harry Freeman currently works as an independent education consultant. From 2002 – 2015 he worked with the Professional Development Service for Teachers (PDST), where his primary role was that of national advisor to the Leaving Certificate Applied Programme. Harry has delivered CPD to school leaders and teachers in over 450 post primary schools and FET centres across Ireland. The numerous workshops he has facilitated include: Middle Leadership, Positive Behaviour Management and Active Learning Methodologies. He was also strand leader of the Master in Education degree course in Positive Behaviour Management in Trinity College Dublin from 2009 to 2022. Previously, Harry taught Mathematics and Information Technology in Marino College, Dublin 3. His website can be accessed at www.harryfreeman.ie

Please note: Pre-booking is essential. Please do not book onto this session unless you are sure that you will attend / have approval to attend (if required). If an emergency arises, please inform us ASAP (cpdcancellations@fess.ie) as we operate a waiting list system and if time allows, we can offer your booked place to another person.

Thursday, 17 October 2024 - 10.00 to 12.00

A link to this online event will be emailed in advance. 
Please keep an eye on your Junk/Spam folder in case the e-mail with the link to the online event ends up there.

Artificial Intelligence (AI), What is it and what are the opportunities and challenges for FET?

This is a repeat of the PD session run on the 2 October 2024 

In the last year, there has been a huge interest in the profound potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within the realm of Further Education and Training. This presentation will cover the basics of AI, demystifying its core concepts and exploring its real-world applications. We will focus on BingChat, an advanced AI language model through the lens of a FET teacher or tutor. AI can  assist educators, administrators, and students alike, providing personalized support, generating educational content, and promoting engagement. But AI in education is not just about convenience; it's also about the opportunities and challenges it presents to educators. Explore the vast potential for AI to streamline administrative tasks, enhance teaching materials, and adapt learning experiences to individual student needs. We will discuss the challenges and potential threats AI poses to educators in the FET sector, addressing concerns about job displacement and the changing role of teachers/tutors/trainers. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on the future of education where AI and human educators collaborate to create more effective and personalized learning environments. Discover how you can harness the power of AI to elevate your teaching practices and unlock new possibilities in Further Education and Training.

Facilitation: John Heffernan (Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim ETB) and Susan Dunne (Tipperary ETB)

John Heffernan is the Professional Development Co-ordinator for Mayo Sligo Leitrim ETB. John's career, prior to teaching was in IT, working for a number of start-up companies. He has taught or worked in education technology for more than twenty years, including two years as a PLC teacher. He has been involved in AI in Education with a number of organisations for a number of years. He is on the executive of CESI (Computers in Education Society of Ireland) which is the Subject Association for Computer Science and technology in education. He was previously TEL coordinator with Tipperary ETB. He was recently awarded one of the ISTE 20 to watch for 2024.

Susan Dunne brings 13 years of experience as an educator in post-primary education, teaching Business, Accountancy, and IT. During her time in post-primary education, she was a coordinator for programs such as LCA, LCVP, TY, and IT. She was part of one of the first schools to achieve recognition as a Microsoft School of Excellence in Ireland.
Over the past five years, Susan ventured into Further Education, where she teaches QQI Level 4 and 5 courses. Within her teaching, she uses OneNote E-portfolio extensively for teaching and assessment purposes. Alongside her practical teaching experience, she holds a postgraduate qualification in Special Educational Needs. Her enthusiasm for technology is constant and she continually explores innovative ways to incorporate it into her teaching practices. 
Throughout her career, she has dedicated time to enhancing her pedagogical skills, delving into various teaching methodologies, including Assessment for Learning and becoming a Universal Design for Learning (UDL) facilitator. Currently, she is actively involved in the development team for the new Leaving Certificate Business Studies course with the NCCA.

Thursday 17 October 2024 - 14.00 to 16.00

A link to this online event will be emailed in advance. 
Please keep an eye on your Junk/Spam folder in case the e-mail with the link to the online event ends up there.

  AI for Teaching, Learning and Assessment in FET

Rapid advances in generative AI present significant opportunities and challenges for society and for education providers. In FET the opportunities include harnessing AI to support planning and teaching and utilising AI tools to support learners throughout their learning journeys. Challenges include addressing concerns about academic integrity and developing a strategic approach to AI use which focuses on ethics and criticality.

In this workshop we will detail how LCETB College of FET addressed the challenges and specifically how the TEL and QA support services came together to develop a coordinated strategic approach to the adoption and use of AI. The approach adopted involved initial awareness raising, the development of guidelines on AI use in assessment, and the rollout of CPD initiatives focused on AI and assessment and the critical exploration of AI tools.

The session will cover much of the content from Máire and Brendan’s April FESS Workshop but will also bring you up-to-date with more recent developments and efforts to embed a critically-led approach to the adoption and use of AI in teaching and Learning.

The target audience for this session is: FET staff including management, teachers, tutors, trainers, programme coordinators and learning support staff.

Facilitators: Máire Lynch and Dr Brendan Ryan

Máire Lynch is a QA Officer with Limerick and Clare ETB with responsibility for curriculum development and review, new programme development and quality assuring teaching, learning and assessment across the organisation. Máire previously worked in industry before taking up a teaching position with the former VECs and worked extensively in classroom and co-ordination roles before moving into the area of quality assurance. She was part of the national working group responsible for the development of the FET Referencing Handbook and Academic Writing Handbook for Learners. Areas of particular interest include incorporating UDL Principles into teaching, learning and assessment at all NFQ levels, use of Plain English tools and facilitating AI practices to enhance teaching, learning and assessment.

Dr Brendan Ryan has worked in Adult and Further Education for over thirty years and as a Learning Technologist for over twenty of those years. In his role with Limerick and Clare ETB Further Education and Training (FET) Division he leads up the Technology Enhanced Learning (TEL) Support Service. Brendan has extensive teaching and research experience and recently completed a PhD study focused on embedding criticality in Learning Technology Professional Development.

Please note: Pre-booking is essential. Please do not book onto this session unless you are sure that you will attend / have approval to attend (if required). If an emergency arises, please inform us ASAP (cpdcancellations@fess.ie) as we operate a waiting list system and if time allows, we can offer your booked place to another person.

Tuesday, 22 October 2024 - 14.00 to 16.00

A link to this online event will be emailed in advance. 
Please keep an eye on your Junk/Spam folder in case the e-mail with the link to the online event ends up there.

Positive Behaviour Management for the FET classroom

Working in the Further Education sector presents teachers/tutors/instructors with a broad range of challenges. Learners present with broad levels of motivation and a range of social, emotional and behavioural issues. These add to the complexity of the classroom context in which FE teachers practice. This session will offer practical strategies to help equip teachers to respond to the behaviours encountered daily. It will also give teachers an opportunity to share and learn from each other.

The target audience for this session is: FET staff including management, teachers, tutors, trainers, programme coordinators, guidance counsellors, learning support staff and wellbeing officers.

Facilitation: Harry Freeman currently works as an independent education consultant. From 2002 – 2015 he worked with the Professional Development Service for Teachers (PDST), where his primary role was that of national advisor to the Leaving Certificate Applied Programme. Harry has delivered CPD to school leaders and teachers in over 450 post primary schools and FET centres across Ireland. The numerous workshops he has facilitated include: Middle Leadership, Positive Behaviour Management and Active Learning Methodologies. He was also strand leader of the Master in Education degree course in Positive Behaviour Management in Trinity College Dublin from 2009 to 2022. Previously, Harry taught Mathematics and Information Technology in Marino College, Dublin 3. His website can be accessed at www.harryfreeman.ie

Please note: Pre-booking is essential. Please do not book onto this session unless you are sure that you will attend / have approval to attend (if required). If an emergency arises, please inform us ASAP (cpdcancellations@fess.ie) as we operate a waiting list system and if time allows, we can offer your booked place to another person.

Tuesday, 12 November 2024 - 14.00 to 16.00

A link to this online event will be emailed in advance. 
Please keep an eye on your Junk/Spam folder in case the e-mail with the link to the online event ends up there.

AI Workshop for Teaching, Learning and Assessment in FET

This workshop builds upon a previous session (22 October 2024), where the TEL and QA support services in LCETB College of FET showcased how they came together to develop a coordinated strategic approach to the adoption and use of AI. In this workshop, we will take a closer, hands on look at specific AI tools and how they can be applied to enhance teaching, learning, and assessment in practical ways. AI can streamline lesson planning, personalise learning experiences, and support ongoing assessment and we will demonstrate hands-on examples of how these tools can be integrated into classroom practices to improve student engagement and outcomes. Along with practical applications, criticality will feature throughout our exploration of AI use.

Target audience: All FET educators and particularly those involved in teaching, learning and assessment.

Facilitation: Liese Gubbins, Shirley O’ Leary and Caroline Carr (all LCETB staff)

Liese Gubbins is a Technology Enhanced Learning (TEL) Support Worker for the Limerick and Clare ETB, providing support to campuses in Limerick city and West Limerick. She has over 4 years' experience in the Further Education and Training sector, having previously worked as an Adult Educator with the Vocational and Employee Skills Development provision. Liese holds a Masters and Chartership in Work and Organisational Psychology and has a background in Human Resources and recruitment. She applies her experience in organisational psychology to support the adoption of digital tools, enhance staff development, and promote effective learning environments.

Shirley O’Leary is a Technology Enhanced Learning (TEL) Support worker with the Limerick and Clare ETB, supporting staff in integrating technology across campuses in Clare. With 21 years of teaching experience at second level & the Youthreach programme, she has taught History, English, SPHE, and STEAM. Shirley holds a Bachelor of Arts in History and English, a Higher Diploma in Education, and certifications in Technology Enhanced Learning, Digital Course Design & Digital Media Production. Shirley is passionate about Universal Design for Learning. Her key interests lie in promoting accessible, engaging, and adaptable learning environments.

Caroline Carr is a Technology Enhanced Learning (TEL) Support worker for the Limerick and Clare ETB, supporting staff with the integration and use of technology across campuses in Limerick city and East Limerick. With 17 years of experience as an educator on the Youthreach programme, she taught Mathematics, SPHE, Music, STEAM and IT, and coordinated the Leaving Certificate Applied (LCA) programme. Her passion for learner engagement and retention drives her to explore innovative teaching methods and share best practices. Caroline holds a Masters in Education, Postgraduate Diploma in Educational Leadership, along with certifications in Technology Enhance Learning for learning support, assessment and digital learning design and Universal Design for Learning (UDL). She is continuously enhancing her skills to support staff and improve learning experiences.

Please note: Pre-booking is essential. Please do not book onto this session unless you are sure that you will attend / have approval to attend (if required). If an emergency arises, please inform us ASAP (cpdcancellations@fess.ie) as we operate a waiting list system and if time allows, we can offer your booked place to another person.

Tuesday, 19 November 2024 - 10.00 to 12.00

A link to this online event will be emailed in advance. 
Please keep an eye on your Junk/Spam folder in case the e-mail with the link to the online event ends up there.

Relating Transversal Skills to FET Deferred

This session will address the growing importance of Transversal Skills as a positive means to navigate the impact of an ever-accelerating world.
The session is aimed at Teachers and tutors of FET levels 5-6 and provides a resource to support teachers/tutors to aid their learners as they prepare for the world of work or tertiary education.

A transversal skills framework developed in conjunction with Leargas will be shared. This framework can be used as a guide to Transversal Skills for FET international work placements under Erasmus +. The framework can also act as a template for the exploration and identification of Transversal Skills by teachers and tutors.

The session will present the outcomes of research identifying the priority Transversal Skills for the future of work and present an overview of a toolkit developed as a support resource to those facilitating learner acquisition of Transversal Skills within FET.

The target audience for this session is: FET staff including management, teachers, tutors, trainers, programme coordinators, guidance counsellors, learning support staff and wellbeing officers.

Facilitation: This event will be facilitated by Dr Marie Cleary. Marie is founder and director at ThirdSpace Consultants. She has extensive experience working with senior management and their teams to deliver strategic management interventions, facilitate change, develop leaders and build high performance teams. Before moving into Consulting, Marie was a teacher of Music and English at second level for 10 years. Her 20+ years Consulting career has spanned both public and private sector internationally. Her qualifications in Business, Education, Finance and Psychology, coupled with her previous roles in management of EU funding, gives her an expansive skillset to work in a variety of settings. Marie is a coaching psychologist with extensive experience as an executive coach and has worked at a senior level to assist clients resolve challenging issues, build resilience and enhance leadership capability. Marie is passionate about intercultural education and is closely connected to the work of Leargas across the fields of Youth, Further Education and School Education.

Please note: Pre-booking is essential. Please do not book onto this session unless you are sure that you will attend / have approval to attend (if required). If an emergency arises, please inform us ASAP (cpdcancellations@fess.ie) as we operate a waiting list system and if time allows, we can offer your booked place to another person.

Tuesday 26 November 2024 - 10.00 to 12.00 

A link to this online event will be emailed in advance. 
Please keep an eye on your Junk/Spam folder in case the e-mail with the link to the online event ends up there.

Planning for Authentic and Inclusive Assessment in FET

This hands on and interactive workshop will invite participants to explore what it means to plan for authentic, inclusive assessment in their FET setting. The objective of this session is to challenge, encourage and empower educators to embrace the variability of learners. They can do this by offering choice in assessment and providing opportunities to learners to showcase their knowledge and skills to the best of their ability.
By the end of this session participants will have had opportunities to:
• Reflect on the purposes and principles of assessment, with a focus on equity.
• Explore authentic assessment and plan for its use in their classroom.
• Reimagine assessment approaches through a universally designed, inclusive lens.

The target audience for this session is: FET staff including management, teachers, tutors, trainers, programme coordinators, guidance counsellors, learning support staff and wellbeing officers.

Facilitation: This session will be facilitated by Carrie Archer. Carrie's pronouns are she/her. She is a qualified special education teacher who has been working in Further Education and Training for 15 years. Her interests are coaching, leadership, Communities of Practice, Universal Design for Learning and championing belonging, equity, inclusion, and diversity. She was a part of the design team with City of Dublin ETB and Trinity College Dublin who developed a master’s course in Diversity and Inclusion in FET. She currently lectures on Postgraduate and master’s programmes in the National College of Ireland on diversity and inclusion, and on assessment and feedback for educational practice.

Please note: Pre-booking is essential. Please do not book onto this session unless you are sure that you will attend / have approval to attend (if required). If an emergency arises, please inform us ASAP (cpdcancellations@fess.ie) as we operate a waiting list system and if time allows, we can offer your booked place to another person.

Thursday 28 November 2024 - 14.00 to 16.00 

A link to this online event will be emailed in advance. 
Please keep an eye on your Junk/Spam folder in case the e-mail with the link to the online event ends up there.

Artificial Intelligence (AI), What is it and what are the opportunities and challenges for FET?

Plesae Note: This PD event has been run previously but is updated with the latest information each time it is delivered, so some of the content is the same and some ie new content based on the most recent AI developments. 

In the last year, there has been a huge interest in the profound potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within the realm of Further Education and Training. This presentation will cover the basics of AI, demystifying its core concepts and exploring its real-world applications. We will focus on BingChat, an advanced AI language model through the lens of a FET teacher or tutor. AI can  assist educators, administrators, and students alike, providing personalized support, generating educational content, and promoting engagement. But AI in education is not just about convenience; it's also about the opportunities and challenges it presents to educators. Explore the vast potential for AI to streamline administrative tasks, enhance teaching materials, and adapt learning experiences to individual student needs. We will discuss the challenges and potential threats AI poses to educators in the FET sector, addressing concerns about job displacement and the changing role of teachers/tutors/trainers. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on the future of education where AI and human educators collaborate to create more effective and personalized learning environments. Discover how you can harness the power of AI to elevate your teaching practices and unlock new possibilities in Further Education and Training.

Facilitation: John Heffernan (Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim ETB) and Susan Dunne (Tipperary ETB)

John Heffernan is the Professional Development Co-ordinator for Mayo Sligo Leitrim ETB. John's career, prior to teaching was in IT, working for a number of start-up companies. He has taught or worked in education technology for more than twenty years, including two years as a PLC teacher. He has been involved in AI in Education with a number of organisations for a number of years. He is on the executive of CESI (Computers in Education Society of Ireland) which is the Subject Association for Computer Science and technology in education. He was previously TEL coordinator with Tipperary ETB. He was recently awarded one of the ISTE 20 to watch for 2024.

Susan Dunne brings 13 years of experience as an educator in post-primary education, teaching Business, Accountancy, and IT. During her time in post-primary education, she was a coordinator for programs such as LCA, LCVP, TY, and IT. She was part of one of the first schools to achieve recognition as a Microsoft School of Excellence in Ireland.
Over the past five years, Susan ventured into Further Education, where she teaches QQI Level 4 and 5 courses. Within her teaching, she uses OneNote E-portfolio extensively for teaching and assessment purposes. Alongside her practical teaching experience, she holds a postgraduate qualification in Special Educational Needs. Her enthusiasm for technology is constant and she continually explores innovative ways to incorporate it into her teaching practices. 
Throughout her career, she has dedicated time to enhancing her pedagogical skills, delving into various teaching methodologies, including Assessment for Learning and becoming a Universal Design for Learning (UDL) facilitator. Currently, she is actively involved in the development team for the new Leaving Certificate Business Studies course with the NCCA.

Wednesday, 5 February 2025 - 14.00 to 16.00

A link to this online event will be emailed in advance. 
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    Boosting Emotional and Mental Fitness for FET Staff

In Ireland and around the world, the signs and symptoms of stress are increasing in critical ways - with rates of burnout, stress, loneliness, depression, anxiety, and lifestyle disease rising. This programme is designed to equip FET staff with the tools to boost their emotional and mental fitness so they can work more effectively, handle the stresses of modern life, and enjoy a happy healthy life outside of work.

Objective:
This interactive workshop is designed to equip FET staff with practical tools to enhance their mental and emotional fitness and overall wellbeing. Participants will learn strategies to manage stress, boost resilience, and cultivate a mindset that fosters productivity, creativity, and wellbeing.

1. Overview of Mental and Emotional Fitness - Creating a mindset shift from ‘coping with stress’ to ‘building inner strength.’
2. Core Concepts and Tools
• Mindfulness and Self-Awareness
• Emotional Intelligence and Regulation Techniques
3. Interactive Practices to build Mental and Emotional Strength
4. Overview of Your 12 Pillars of Wellbeing
5. Technology, AI and Emotional and Mental Fitness
6. Challenge - participants set one specific goal for building their mental and emotional fitness over the next 30 days.

In this session, participants will:
1. Learn how to boost their emotional and mental fitness.
2. Gain an understanding of the different pillars of wellbeing and how to strengthen them.
3. Access a toolbox to stay mentally and emotional fit in today’s fast paced world.

The target audience for this session is: FET staff including management, teachers, tutors, trainers, programme coordinators, guidance counsellors, learning support staff and wellbeing officers.

Facilitation: This session is facilitated by Calodagh McCumiskey. She is an accredited master practitioner in Wellbeing and Coaching. She is a speaker and wellbeing trainer. Clients include corporates, Government Organisations, The Education Sector and Individuals. She has a background in Aid Work and worked in high stress environments in the aftermath of man-made and natural disasters for 14 years. Calodagh was the runner up in the Network Ireland National Solo Business person of the year Competition in 2023. She was awarded the Judges Special Recognition in the 2024 Network Ireland Business woman of the year. She completed a Master of Business in Executive leadership in 2024. For more information, visit: www.spiritualearth.com or www.calodagh.com or www.innerrhythm.ie.

Please note: Pre-booking is essential. Please do not book onto this session unless you are sure that you will attend/have approval to attend (if required). If an emergency arises, please inform us ASAP (cpdcancellations@fess.ie) as we operate a waiting list system and if time allows, we can offer your booked place to another person.

Tuesday, 11 February 2025 -10.00 to 12.00 

A link to this online event will be emailed in advance. 
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      Assessment - A self-directed online course on Locally Devising Assessment plus Follow-up Clinics

NEW!

FESS has developed this new resource to support new assessors to navigate their way through assessment for the first time. The resource focuses on the assessment of learners who are following further education and training programmes or FET programmes that lead to QQI certification at NFQ levels 1 to 6. The specific focus of the resource is on summative assessment in a locally devised assessment process which means that the detail in the resource is targeted towards assessors who are tasked with devising their own assessment briefs, examination papers and related documentation so that they can assess learners for certification purposes.

The resource is divided into five modules. Each module is divided into a number of units, and each unit is divided into sections. The five modules are:

1. Quality Assuring Assessment
2. Understanding the Standard
3. Devising Assessment
4. Marking Learner Assessment Evidence
5. Considerations for an Assessor

To access the course, click here

A tutorial document to help you create your account, enrol on the course, complete the course and download your digital certificate can be downloaded here 

A short video tutorial to guide you through the process of creating an account and enrolling yourself in the course can be accessed here, it is slightly over 5 minutes long

Please Note: The content of this course is similar to the content delivered previously online on the Assessment Suite that was offered as 5 x 2 hour online sessions. 

The target audience for this series is: Assessors new to the area of FET and engaged in a locally devised assessment process. However, the sessions may also appeal to those who wish to refresh their understanding of assessment and/or those tasked with supporting/informing the assessment process locally. 

Facilitation: This course has been developed by FESS to provide participants with the opportunity to engage in a self-directed online course that can be undertaken at the participant's own pace and at a time that is convenient to them. Assessment clinics to support those participating on the online course will be provided by FESS.

Please note: To access the course, you will have to follow the steps in the tutorial:

• Access www.fesslearning.ie 
• Create an account - email and password and email will be verified 
• Enrol on the Locally Devised Assessment course - by clicking enrol, see tutorial
• Complete each of the five modules in sequence
• Download your Certificate of Completion and save for your own records 

Assessment Clinic

This one hour online clinic is designed as a follow-up support to allow participants who are completing or have completed the online Locally Devised Assessment course to pose any questions and queries that they may have as a result of engaging with the online course. An informal approach will be adopted for this session where the clinic will be participant-led, which will allow for the sharing and discussion of ideas. These clinics will be hosted on Zoom and the link will be emailed to participants in advance of the event. 

Thursday, 6 February 2025 - 16.00 to 17.00

Assessment Clinic

This one hour online clinic is designed as a follow-up support to allow participants who are completing or have completed the online Locally Devised Assessment course to pose any questions and queries that they may have as a result of engaging with the online course. An informal approach will be adopted for this session where the clinic will be participant-led, which will allow for the sharing and discussion of ideas. These clinics will be hosted on Zoom and the link will be emailed to participants in advance of the event. 

Tuesday, 4 March 2025- 16.00 to 17.00

Assessment Clinic

This one hour online clinic is designed as a follow-up support to allow participants who are completing or have completed the online Locally Devised Assessment course to pose any questions and queries that they may have as a result of engaging with the online course. An informal approach will be adopted for this session where the clinic will be participant-led, which will allow for the sharing and discussion of ideas. These clinics will be hosted on Zoom and the link will be emailed to participants in advance of the event. 

Wednesday, 9 April 2025 - 16.00 to 17.00

Assessment Clinic

This one hour online clinic is designed as a follow-up support to allow participants who are completing or have completed the online Locally Devised Assessment course to pose any questions and queries that they may have as a result of engaging with the online course. An informal approach will be adopted for this session where the clinic will be participant-led, which will allow for the sharing and discussion of ideas. These clinics will be hosted on Zoom and the link will be emailed to participants in advance of the event. 

Thursday 8 May 2025 - 16.00 to 17.00

Assessment Clinic

This one hour online clinic is designed as a follow-up support to allow participants who are completing or have completed the online Locally Devised Assessment course to pose any questions and queries that they may have as a result of engaging with the online course. An informal approach will be adopted for this session where the clinic will be participant-led, which will allow for the sharing and discussion of ideas. These clinics will be hosted on Zoom and the link will be emailed to participants in advance of the event. 

Tuesday, 10 June 2025 - 16.00 to 17.00

Relating Transversal Skills to FET

This session will address the growing importance of Transversal Skills as a positive means to navigate the impact of an ever-accelerating world.

The session is aimed at Teachers and tutors of FET levels 5-6 and provides a resource to support teachers/tutors to aid their learners as they prepare for the world of work or tertiary education.

A transversal skills framework developed in conjunction with Leargas will be shared. This framework can be used as a guide to Transversal Skills for FET international work placements under Erasmus +.  The framework can also act as a template for the exploration and identification of Transversal Skills by teachers and tutors.

The session will present the outcomes of research identifying the priority Transversal Skills for the future of work and present an overview of a toolkit developed as a support resource to those facilitating learner acquisition of Transversal Skills within FET.

The target audience for this session is: FET staff including management, teachers, tutors, trainers, programme coordinators, guidance counsellors, learning support staff and wellbeing officers.

Facilitation: This event will be facilitated by Dr Marie Cleary. Marie is founder and director at ThirdSpace Consultants. She has extensive experience working with senior management and their teams to deliver strategic management interventions, facilitate change, develop leaders and build high performance teams. Before moving into Consulting, Marie was a teacher of Music and English at second level for 10 years. Her 20+ years Consulting career has spanned both public and private sector internationally. Her qualifications in Business, Education, Finance and Psychology, coupled with her previous roles in management of EU funding, gives her an expansive skillset to work in a variety of settings. Marie is a coaching psychologist with extensive experience as an executive coach and has worked at a senior level to assist clients resolve challenging issues, build resilience and enhance leadership capability. Marie is passionate about intercultural education and is closely connected to the work of Leargas across the fields of Youth, Further Education and School Education.

Please note: Pre-booking is essential. Please do not book onto this event unless you are sure that you will attend / have approval to attend (if required). If an emergency arises, please inform us ASAP (cpdcancellations@fess.ie) as we operate a waiting list system and if time allows, we can offer your booked place to another person.

Thursday, 6 March 2025 - 10.00 to 12.00

A link to this online event will be emailed in advance. 
Please keep an eye on your Junk/Spam folder in case the e-mail with the link to the online event ends up there.

Lego®Serious Play® in FET

Why not try something a little different with your students this year.

Lego® Serious Play® (LSP) is a facilitated methodology created by the Lego® Group.

In a Lego®Serious Play® session students engage in experiential learning and build with LEGO® bricks and elements in a very different way to normal Lego® building.

The process is surprisingly powerful and is an effective way to engage the brain and work through different scenarios and challenges to achieve outcomes.

The process supports thinking with the hands. Everyone builds, everyone listens and everyone tells their stories ensuring 100% engagement and 100% respect. Its helps to make sense of complex information and is grounded in scientific research.

This session will cover:

What is Lego®Serious Play®
Lego®Serious Play®check-ins
Lego®Serious Play® process and etiquette
Using Lego® bricks, elements and activities to support thinking, listening, sharing, voice, reflection and evaluation
Sourcing Lego®Serious Play® resources
N.B. Materials / resources needed for the workshop:

In order to join the workshop, it is essential that ALL participants:

bring along a small box of Lego® bricks and elements to the online workshop. These should be in a range of different colours and shapes; the more unusual and random the shapes the better!
Have a desk space for working with the Lego®
have all laptop cameras and Mics on throughout the entire session.
PLEASE NOTE: Should you have difficulty sourcing Lego® bricks and you wish to participate in this workshop, please contact FESS as soon as possible and we will try to assist you.

This session is ideal for FET teachers who are eager to create a more connected and supportive learning environment.

The target audience for this session is: FET staff including management, teachers, tutors, trainers, programme coordinators, guidance counsellors, learning support staff and wellbeing officers.

Facilitation: This event will be facilitated by Miriam O’Donoghue. Miriam is an independent facilitator, trainer and consultant with a strong background and experience of working in Education both nationally and internationally that includes teaching, lecturing and training roles at Primary, Post-primary, Further Education and Training, and Higher Education (Teacher Education) levels. Miriam has also held senior management roles in Curriculum Development, Professional Development and Education Support Services.

Miriam is a trained and experienced LEGO® Serious Play® facilitator and trainer.

Miriam has a deep understanding of LEGO® Serious Play® methodology, principles, techniques, and the applications of LEGO® Serious Play®.

Please note: Pre-booking is essential. Please do not book onto this session unless you are sure that you will attend / have approval to attend (if required). If an emergency arises, please inform us ASAP (cpdcancellations@fess.ie) as we operate a waiting list system and if time allows, we can offer your booked place to another person.

Tuesday, 11 March 2025 - 14.00 to 16.00

A link to this online event will be emailed in advance. 
Please keep an eye on your Junk/Spam folder in case the e-mail with the link to the online event ends up there.

Unlocking the Potential of Rubrics in Teaching, Learning and Assessment

Please note: This event is a repeat of a previous FESS PD event on 'Unlocking the Potential of Rubrics in Teaching, Learning and Assessment' first delivered online in 2022, 2023 and 2024.

This online event aims to assist FET staff in the development and use of rubrics to support teaching, learning and assessment activities. This is an interactive event where participants will be provided with information, have the opportunity to engage in discussion and participate in a rubric development workshop.

This event will:

• Provide an overview of what we mean by rubrics
• Explore the purpose, types and benefits of rubrics
• Explore the use and relevance of rubrics for teaching, learning and assessment
• Provide participants with the opportunity to begin the development of a rubric
• Provide the opportunity to share some examples of rubrics for different purposes.

Learning together in this event will help us to consider the range of possibilities rubrics can bring to teaching, learning and assessment.

The target audience for this event is: FET staff including teachers, tutors, trainers, programme co-ordinators and QA staff.

Facilitation: This event will be facilitated by Mary Sheehy (FESS).

Please note: Pre-booking is essential. Please do not book onto this event unless you are sure that you will attend / have approval to attend (if required). If an emergency arises, please inform us ASAP (cpdcancellations@fess.ie) as we operate a waiting list system and if time allows we can offer your booked place to another person.

Wednesday, 19 March 2025 - 10.00 to 12.00

A link to this online event will be emailed in advance. 
Please keep an eye on your Junk/Spam folder in case the e-mail with the link to the online event ends up there.

In a time of increasing global challenges and uncertainties that threaten our very existence- a transformation of how we think and act, is urgently required.

The Irish Governments’ Global Citizenship Education Strategy 2021- 2025 defines Global Citizenship Education (GCE) as “…a lifelong educational process, which aims to increase public awareness and understanding of the rapidly changing, inter-dependent and unequal world in which we live”.

By challenging stereotypes and encouraging independent thinking, GCE can help us to critically explore how global justice issues interlink with our everyday lives; developing the skills, values and attitudes that will support us and our learners to lead a just, sustainable and equitable world for present and future generations.

Objectives:
Experiential learning techniques will be used in this session to creatively explore what Global Citizenship Education is and how it relates to professional practice.

Participants will:
1. Critically explore the four pillars of GCE: Critical Thinking, Problem Solving, Systems Thinking, and Active Citizenship- through interactive activities.
2. Increase awareness of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS) and their relevance to working practice.
3. Reflect on our own professional roles within the GCE and the sustainability discourse.
4. Draw on globally-oriented and diverse learning resources provided that can help learners in understanding how how global, regional, national and local issues are interdependent and interconnected.

The target audience for this event is: All FET staff members, including teachers, tutors, trainers, instructors and those in a co-ordination and/or quality assurance role.

Facilitation: Trainers Alice Robinson & Martin Dillon from Saolta will facilitate this session. Saolta are a Global Citizenship Education strategic partnership programme for the Adult and Community Education (ACE) sector in Ireland, funded by Irish Aid. We explore a variety of global issues with stakeholders in the ACE sector and encourage informed action across Irish society. Development Perspectives is the lead partner in Saolta, which also includes AONTAS, Concern Worldwide, Irish Rural Link, and the Adult and Community Education Dept of Maynooth University, and Cork Education and Training Board (CETB). To learn more about our trainers and the work of Saolta, you can visit our website: www.saolta.com

Please note: Pre-booking is essential. Please do not book onto this session unless you are sure that you will attend / have approval to attend (if required). If an emergency arises, please inform us ASAP (cpdcancellations@fess.ie) as we operate a waiting list system and if time allows, we can offer your booked place to another person.

Thursday, 20 March 2025 - 10.00 to 12.00

A link to this online event will be emailed in advance. 
Please keep an eye on your Junk/Spam folder in case the e-mail with the link to the online event ends up there.

Feedback in FET

This session will facilitate participants in exploring the who, what, where, when, why and how of feedback in their own context. It aims to encourage educators to move beyond providing feedback for summative purposes and to explore how formative feedback can be used in many different forms throughout the learning experience.

Who- Who is responsible for providing feedback, and who should/ could be responsible for it? 

What- What is feedback and what are its purposes in your specific context? What are the various forms of feedback that are/can be provided? 

Where- Where does/ can/ should feedback take place?

When- When is feedback given? When should/ could it be given? 

Why- Why do we give feedback? Why is it important- or is it?

How- How do we generate feedback? How do we manage it from a practical perspective? How is it received and used by learners?

The target audience for this session is: FET staff including management, teachers, tutors, trainers, programme coordinators, guidance counsellors, learning support staff and wellbeing officers.

Facilitation:  This session will be facilitated by Carrie Archer.  Carrie's pronouns are she/her. She is a qualified special education teacher who has been working in Further Education and Training for 15 years. Her interests are coaching, leadership, Communities of Practice, Universal Design for Learning and championing belonging, equity, inclusion, and diversity.  She was a part of the design team with City of Dublin ETB and Trinity College Dublin who developed a master’s course in Diversity and Inclusion in FET. She currently lectures on Postgraduate and master’s programmes in the National College of Ireland on diversity and inclusion, and on assessment and feedback for educational practice.

Please note: Pre-booking is essential. Please do not book onto this session unless you are sure that you will attend / have approval to attend (if required). If an emergency arises, please inform us ASAP (cpdcancellations@fess.ie) as we operate a waiting list system and if time allows, we can offer your booked place to another person.

Tuesday, 25 March 2025 - 14.00 to 16.00

A link to this online event will be emailed in advance. 
Please keep an eye on your Junk/Spam folder in case the e-mail with the link to the online event ends up there.

This course has been designed to respond to discussions and interactions with educators and individuals with dyslexia.
This course will provide an overview of dyslexia and how it impacts learners and their learning. There will be a focus on practical strategies to support learners with dyslexia in education.

The course is delivered online via Zoom. The presentations and supporting documents will be provided to all participants before the course to enhance their learning experience.

This course will benefit teaching and learning professionals, disability support staff, senior leadership, and anyone working on improving accessibility and inclusion initiatives.

A course certificate of attendance will be sent to attendees after the event.

This course is a 4 hour course, which will be offered in 2 x 2 hour sessions on the 26 March and 2 April from 14.00 - 16.00

Target Audience: This course will be of particular benefit to teaching and learning professionals, disability support staff, senior leadership, and anyone working on improving accessibility and inclusion initiatives.

Learning Outcomes for Part 1 (26 March):
Develop an understanding of what dyslexia is, and how it impacts learners.
Consider the impact of dyslexia on mental health and well-being in education.

Learning Outcomes for Part 2 (2 April):
Understand best practices for inclusion.
Understand practical support strategies for individual learners.

Facilitation:This PD event will be facilitated by Caoimhe O’ Malley, Senior Adult Dyslexia Coordinator, Dyslexia Ireland and 

Caoimhe O Malley, B.A. (Hons), M.A., Single B.A., and Higher Diploma in Education, is the Senior Adult Dyslexia Coordinator for Dyslexia Ireland. In this role, she leads the development of comprehensive dyslexia support for adults, delivering impactful in-person and online training tailored to Adult Education (Further Education and Training (FETs), Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), and Employment sectors.
Before joining Dyslexia Ireland, Caoimhe built a career in education, focusing on fostering equity of access to quality learning opportunities. Her efforts centred on ensuring that every student, regardless of their circumstances, has the tools and support necessary to reach their full personal potential.
Caoimhe’s work is driven by her passion for creating inclusive environments and empowering individuals to thrive.

Dyslexia Course for FET and HE Educators - part 1 

Wednesday, 26 March 2025 - 14.00 to 16.00

A link to this online event will be emailed in advance. 
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Dyslexia Course for FET and HE Educators - part 2

Wednesday, 2 April 2025 - 14.00 to 16.00

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Teaching, Learning and Assessment in FET

Assessment is an essential component of the teaching, learning and assessment process. Assessment for, assessment as and assessment of learning are approaches that enable those in teaching roles to gather evidence about what learners know, facilitate learners in taking on a level of responsibility for their own learning and make judgements about learner achievement.  The summative assessment process of making judgements on learner achievement is well supported and an online self-directed course on Locally Devised Assessment is available. The teaching and learning process of using evidence about learners' knowledge, understanding and skills to inform effective teaching and learning and encouraging learners to adopt an active role in their own learning and assessment has been identified as being key to creating high quality teaching, learning and assessment experiences for learners in FET.

Assessment for learning (formative assessment) usually occurs throughout the teaching and learning process and helps learners learn better, rather than just achieve a better grade

Assessment as learning (formative assessment) occurs when learners are their own assessors. Assessment as learning places value on encouraging learners to be more engaged in their learning, enabling them to monitor their own learning and use a range of strategies to decide what they know and can do, and how to use assessment information to improve their knowledge, understanding and skills for new learning.

This PD session will explore how assessment for and as learning may be used to enhance the teaching and learning experience in the FET classroom.  It will include input and discussion on the following 5 key strands of assessment for and as learning:

Stating the learning intention
Sharing success criteria
Encouraging self and peer assessment
Offering quality formative feedback
Engaging in effective questioning to enhance learning.
The session will have a practical focus with an opportunity for participants to share effective teaching, learning and assessment practice.

The target audience for this session is: FET staff including management, teachers, tutors, trainers, programme coordinators, guidance counsellors, learning support staff and wellbeing officers.

Facilitation: Harry Freeman currently works as an independent education consultant. From 2002 – 2015 he worked with the Professional Development Service for Teachers (PDST), where his primary role was that of national advisor to the Leaving Certificate Applied Programme.  Harry has delivered CPD to school leaders and teachers in over 450 post primary schools and FET centres across Ireland.  The numerous workshops he has facilitated include: Middle Leadership, Positive Behaviour Management and Active Learning Methodologies.  He was also strand leader of the Master in Education degree course in Positive Behaviour Management in Trinity College Dublin from 2009 to 2022. Previously, Harry taught Mathematics and Information Technology in Marino College, Dublin 3. His website can be accessed at www.harryfreeman.ie

Please note: Pre-booking is essential. Please do not book onto this session unless you are sure that you will attend / have approval to attend (if required). If an emergency arises, please inform us ASAP (cpdcancellations@fess.ie) as we operate a waiting list system and if time allows, we can offer your booked place to another person.

Thursday, 27 March 2025 - 14.00 to 16.00

A link to this online event will be emailed in advance. 
Please keep an eye on your Junk/Spam folder in case the e-mail with the link to the online event ends up there.