Professional Master of Education (Primary Teaching)drafted

Program Overview

The Professional Master of Education (Primary Teaching) at DCU equips students with the knowledge, skills, and values to become competent and compassionate primary school teachers. Through a rigorous curriculum and practical experience, the program prepares graduates to meet the challenges of contemporary primary education, fostering the holistic development of all children. With a focus on social justice, equity, and lifelong learning, the program empowers students to create inclusive and transformative learning environments.

Program Outline

Degree Overview

Program Objectives

• Equip students with principles, curriculum knowledge, and pedagogical understanding to begin their teaching careers as competent professionals.
• Respond to the changing contexts of primary education, offering opportunities for critical engagement with the interface between society and education.
• Prepare students comprehensively for a successful teaching career.
### Program Description The Professional Master of Education (Primary Teaching) (PMEP) is a demanding program requiring a commitment to learning, but offers a rewarding and enriching experience to prepare students comprehensively for their future teaching roles. #### Key Features:
• Developed by experts: The program is taught by internationally recognised experts in primary teacher education, committed to academic excellence and innovation.
• Focus on holistic development: Facilitate the development of all children's emotional, social, personal, physical, creative, spiritual, and intellectual capabilities, while fostering their agency throughout school life.
• Meeting individual needs: Recognizing and responding to the needs of diverse learners with insight, expertise, and respect.
• Collaborative learning: Cultivating collaboration, support, and commitment within school communities and the teaching profession.
• Ethical practice: Engaging in practice informed by critical concern for social justice, equality, care, and respect, recognizing all children as citizens, and active participants in learning.
#### Certificate in Religious Education (optional) The program offers an optional CRS (Certificate in Religious Studies) alongside the PMEP program. This prepares teachers to work in Catholic schools according to Council for Catechetics of the Irish Episcopal Conference requirements. The CRS is normally a required condition for employment in Catholic school management board appointments. ## Outline

Year 1:

• Semester 1:
• Introduction to Primary Education
• Principles of Teaching and Learning
• Curriculum Studies
• Language and Literacy Development
• Mathematics Education
• Inclusive Education
• Foundations of Educational Research
• Semester 2:
• Assessment and Evaluation in Primary Education
• ICT in Education
• Children's Literature and Storytelling
• Science and Environmental Education
• Social, Personal and Health Education
• History and Geography Education
• Creative Arts Education
• Music Education

Year 2:

• Semester 1:
• Professional Development for Primary Teachers
• Classroom Management and Behaviour
• Child Development and Learning Theories
• Education in a Global Context
• Leading and Managing Change
• Research Methods in Education
• Elective Module
• Semester 2:
• Internship in a Primary School
### Modules

Year 1 Modules:

• Introduction to Primary Education: Explores various aspects of the primary education system, including historical, philosophical, and sociological perspectives.
• Principles of Teaching and Learning: Examines the fundamental principles underlying effective teaching and learning in primary classrooms.
• Curriculum Studies: Explores the curriculum for primary schools, focusing on its content, organization, and implementation.
• Language and Literacy Development: Examines the development of literacy skills in young children, including reading, writing, and spoken language.
• Mathematics Education: Explores the teaching and learning of mathematics in primary schools, focusing on various approaches and strategies.
• Inclusive Education: Addresses the principles and practices of inclusive education for all learners, including those with special educational needs or disabilities.
• Foundations of Educational Research: Introduces students to educational research methods and methodologies, focusing on how research is used to improve teaching and learning.
• Assessment and Evaluation: Examines various assessment techniques used in primary schools, and their application in evaluating student learning.
• ICT in Education: Explores the use of technology in primary school settings, including its potential for enhancing teaching and learning.
• Children's Literature and Storytelling: Examines the importance and value of children's literature in primary education, and develops skills in storytelling and using literature in the classroom.
• Science and Environmental Education: Explores effective teaching strategies for science and environmental studies in primary classrooms.
• Social, Personal and Health Education: Focuses on teaching social, emotional, and health-related concepts and skills to primary students.
• History and Geography Education: Investigates various methods and resources for teaching history and geography in primary schools.
• Creative Arts Education: Explores teaching and learning strategies for various creative arts disciplines, including visual arts, music, drama, and dance.
• Music Education: Examines the role of music education in primary schools, and develops practical skills for teaching music to young children.

Year 2 Modules:

• Professional Development for Primary Teachers: Examines the context of professional development for primary school teachers, emphasizing its importance for ongoing learning and growth.
• Classroom Management and Behavior: Provides strategies for effective classroom management, including behavior management techniques, positive reinforcement, and creating a supportive learning environment.
• Child Development and Learning: Explores theoretical perspectives on child development and learning, covering various domains of development and related implications for teaching practices.
• Leading and Managing Change: Equips students with the skills and knowledge to lead and manage change within educational settings, including effective communication, collaboration, and decision-making strategies.
• Research Methods in Education: Deepens understanding of various methods for conducting educational research, focusing on quantitative and qualitative research approaches.
• Elective Module: Allows students to choose a module that aligns with their specific interests or career aspirations.
• Internship in a Primary School: Provides students with the opportunity to experience teaching in a primary school setting under the guidance of experienced teachers and mentors.
## Assessment

Assessment Methods:

• Written assignments
• Presentations
• Portfolios
• Examinations
• Practical teaching assessments (internship)

Assessment Criteria:

• Knowledge and understanding of primary education principles and practices
• Application of theories and concepts in classroom settings
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Communication and teamwork abilities
• Professionalism and ethical conduct
## Teaching

Teaching Methods:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Tutorials
• Workshops
• Field trips
• Online learning platforms

Faculty:

The program is taught by experts from the DCU Institute of Education, with backgrounds in primary education, curriculum development, educational research, and various subject areas relevant to the primary school curriculum.

Unique Approaches:

• Emphasis on critical reflection and inquiry-based learning
• Focus on developing students' practical skills through hands-on experience in classrooms and diverse learning environments
• Collaboration with schools and educational partners to ensure program relevance and links to real-world practice
• Integration of technology to enhance teaching and learning
## Careers

Potential Career Paths:

• Primary school teacher
• Special education teacher
• Educational administrator
• Curriculum developer
• Educational researcher
## Other
• The program has a strong focus on social justice and equity, aiming to prepare graduates who are committed to creating inclusive and welcoming learning environments for all students.
• The program emphasizes the importance of lifelong learning and professional development for teachers.
• Students will have the opportunity to participate in research projects and engage with the latest research findings in the field of primary education.
• DCU offers a range of career development and support services to assist students in their transition to the teaching profession.

Full time EU Status Fee €5,800 per annum