In 2011, Hibernia College offered a total of twenty five courses as part of its highly successful summer programme, approved by the Department of Education and Skills (DES) for EPV days.
As always, the feedback from the DES Inspectorate on these courses was extremely positive. As an example, here is what they had to say about our Mathematics course:
Title of Course: Maths – Strategies for Teaching Mathematics in the Primary School
Monitor’s Report
The aims and objectives of the course were clearly laid out at the beginning of the course. The key messages of the course regarding the teaching of Mathematics permeated each module, e.g. the importance of using mathematical language consistently throughout the school. Concise summaries at the end of each module optimised the clarity and certainty of the course objectives. It was evident from the contributions of participants to discussion fora and also from their learning logs/reflection journals that they embraced the key messages of the course with enthusiasm.
The course reflected a high standard of professionalism. Course content was relevant and of benefit to the work of primary teachers as it centred on the content and pedagogic principles of the mathematics curriculum. It illustrated key strategies which could be used in the range of primary classes to ensure the successful development of mathematical concepts and skills. Effective teacher questioning to scaffold pupils’ learning was a positive feature of this course. Extensive links to various resources and websites were provided which participants found most useful.
It was evident from participants’ contributions to the various discussion fora that the meaningful sharing of expertise and experience was ably facilitated by the course tutor. The tutor interacted constructively and regularly with participants to affirm their contributions and to extend their learning. Some participants were asked to revisit the course content to ensure appropriate quality assurance.
Course materials were presented in a clear and attractive manner. All links and resources highlighted on the course were accessible and relevant. Helpful technical assistance was provided promptly when requested.
All of the participant reflection logs reviewed during this evaluation indicate high levels of self-reflection and commitment to applying newly acquired knowledge and awareness to future teaching.
This course will add considerably to participants’ knowledge and skills about teaching and learning within the Mathematics curriculum.
District Inspector
Department of Education and Skills
Summer Programme 2011