Can we do it better?A discussion paper on how reflection within a programme team supports changes and innovations to practice
- 1. Ms Orla Walsh, Dr Breda Mc Taggart
- 2. Presentation outline Overview of relevant policies Brief profile of the adult learner Barriers to participation in education Gender specific barriers to participation Original programme BA Honours Early Childhood Care Education (ECCE) New structure
- 3. Lifelong Learner Learning for life: White Paper on Adult Education (2000) Workforce development (2010) Hunt Report (2011) Australian and Scottish Early Years Strategies Pending Irish Early Years Strategy
- 4. Profile of the adult learner Non-traditional entrant (Quinn, 2006) Motivated to learn (Knowles, 1984) Personal Growth (Rodgers, 1983)
- 5. Associated barriers to participation Geographical inconvenience Time constraints Timetable difficulties Monetary issues Gender difference (McTaggart, 2012; McCulloch and Stokes, 2008; Lieb, 1991)
- 6. Barriers to female participation Psychological demands associated with multiple role responsibilities inclusive of: carer and employee (Patterson and Dowd, 2010; Aontas, 2002; Howell, 2002; Department of Education and Science 2000; Sperling, 1991)
- 7. The BA Hons Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) part-time programme September 2006 Complex programme Cohort eleven students Two evenings per week (7-10pm) 12 Saturdays over year Cost approx €2,500 year Over 6 years Early exit No viable cohort since 2006 on original structure
- 8. Reflection and change Reflection on practice (Schön, 1983) New programme emerged A greater understanding of consumers Two full days face to face contact (Friday & Saturday) Alternate weekends for 12 weekends over the academic year Flexible learning and delivery Completion 4.5 years Identical to full-time BA Hons ECCE programme Placements can be completed over summer Two placements, option to RPL one placement if appropriate
- 9. Current student cohort Viable intake in 2011 20 adult learners One withdrawal due to significant family commitments 4 new babies born to students during the year and all mothers returned to programme Positive feedback from students
- 10. Future plans Template for other programmes in the department Disseminate programme to wider audience Outreach
- 11. Thank you for your time Any questions?