CERTIFICATE IN GLOBAL CITIZENSHIP EDUCATION

Program Overview

The Certificate in Global Citizenship Education is a one-year, part-time program designed for educators and practitioners working with learners of all ages. It equips participants with the knowledge, understanding, and skills to engage learners in making local-global connections on contemporary global challenges. The program offers a flexible schedule, experiential pedagogies, and a range of elective modules to choose from. Graduates are prepared for careers in GCE, including teaching, curriculum development, policy advising, and research.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Certificate in Global Citizenship Education (GCED)

is a one-year, part-time, 20-credit postgraduate program designed for educators and practitioners working with learners at all levels (early childhood to youth, adult and community education, and schools). It equips participants with the knowledge, understanding, and skills to engage learners in making local-global connections on contemporary global challenges.

Program Objectives:

• Enhance understanding of contemporary global development challenges and responses.
• Deepen knowledge of global citizenship and its implications for education.
• Develop skills for facilitating learners' engagement in local-global issues.
• Provide opportunities for critical reflection on personal and professional practice in GCE.

Program Description:

The program comprises one compulsory module on contemporary global development challenges and two elective modules chosen from a range of specialist options. Participants benefit from a flexible schedule, with modules offered on Saturdays, evenings, holidays, and online components. The program utilizes experiential pedagogies and requires a minimum attendance rate of 80%.

Module Examples:

• Contemporary Global Development Challenges
• Global Citizenship Education in Action
• Education for Sustainable Development
• Intercultural Education and Anti-Racism
• GCE in Theory and Practice

Outline:

The program content is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, and independent study.

Compulsory Module:

• Contemporary Global Development Challenges, Issues and Responses (10 credits): This module explores the key challenges facing the world today, including poverty, inequality, conflict, climate change, and environmental degradation.
It also examines various responses to these challenges, including international development, human rights, and sustainable development.

Elective Modules (choose two):

• Global Citizenship Education in Action (5 credits): This module focuses on the practical application of GCE in different educational settings.
Participants will explore a range of teaching and learning strategies for engaging learners in critical reflection on global issues.
• Education for Sustainable Development (5 credits): This module examines the role of education in promoting sustainable development.
• Intercultural Education and Anti-Racism (5 credits): This module explores the concepts of interculturalism and anti-racism in the context of GCE.
Participants will learn about the importance of diversity and inclusion in education and develop strategies for promoting social justice.
• GCE in Theory and Practice (5 credits): This module delves deeper into the theoretical foundations of GCE.

Assessment:

Assessment methods vary depending on the specific module and may include:

• Essays and assignments: These assess students' understanding of key concepts and their ability to apply these concepts to real-world situations.
• Presentations: Students present their research findings and engage in discussions with peers and faculty.
• Reflective journals: Students reflect on their learning experiences and their personal and professional development in relation to GCE.
• Group work: Students collaborate on projects and assignments, developing their teamwork and communication skills.

Teaching:

The program is taught by a team of experienced and passionate educators with expertise in global development, education, human rights, and intercultural education. The teaching methods employed are interactive and engaging, fostering a supportive and collaborative learning environment.

Other:

• The program is designed to be flexible and accessible to working professionals.
• There is a strong emphasis on experiential learning and real-world application.
• The program provides opportunities for networking and collaboration with other professionals in the field of GCE.

Careers:

The program prepares graduates for a variety of careers in GCE, including:

• Teachers and educators: Working in schools, community colleges, adult education centers, and NGOs to promote GCE in formal and informal settings.
• Curriculum developers: Designing and developing GCE resources and learning materials.
• Policy advisors: Working with government agencies and international organizations to develop and implement GCE policies.
• Researchers: Conducting research on GCE and its impact on learners and society.

Other:

• The program is offered by the Department of International Development at Maynooth University, in collaboration with the Department of Education, Adult and Community Education, Froebel Department of Primary and Early Childhood Education, and Applied Social Studies.
• The program is recognized by the National University of Ireland (NUI) and is accredited by the Higher Education and Training Awards Council (HETAC).
• The program is offered on a part-time basis, allowing participants to continue working while studying.