The Minister of State for Research and Innovation, Seán Sherlock, TD, today officially announced the second intake of Maths teachers for the Professional Diploma in Mathematics for Teaching.
The programme is aimed at improving the skills of "out-of-field" maths teachers at post-primary level, and is provided through a consortium led by the National Centre for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching & Learning (NCE-MSTL), based in the University of Limerick (UL).
The course covers mathematical content and knowledge, as well as teaching and learning strategies/approaches relevant to the Project Maths syllabi being rolled out in all schools.
Delivered locally and through online modules, the course is a blended learning programme based on a part-time (2 year) university accredited professional diploma. Accreditation is provided jointly by UL and NUI Galway, through their strategic alliance.
The programme is available nationwide free of charge, with specific provision for teachers in Irish-medium schools.
Following last year’s intake of over 350 students, 400 places are available this year. Applications are being accepted up to the 24th May 2013.
Commenting on the launch, Minister Sherlock said: "The continued provision of this course provides further evidence of my personal commitment, and that of my Government colleagues, to supporting maths teaching in post primary schools.
"We are providing funding of up to €2million for this course, and are making it available free of charge at locations across the country, to maximise accessibility and participation.
To date, the teaching community has shown significant interest in this bespoke course, which is designed specifically with them in mind, and I am confident that there will be the same level of interest in this second opportunity."
To apply for the course teachers should access the following link:
http://www.ul.ie/graduateschool/mathematics-teaching-level-8-application
ENDS
For further information please contact:
Siobhán Creaton 087 941 6286
Sarah Miley 087 782 0941
Notes for Editors:
Some of the testimonies from participants who have enrolled in this course since last September include:
"The main benefits to me in doing the Professional Diploma in Mathematics for Teaching are:
· Stronger Maths skills and a greater understanding of what I am trying to teach
· Increased confidence in the classroom - always a help!
· Greater understanding of what happens when you are experiencing difficulty with maths!
The course providers are extremely supportive. The on site lecturers are very helpful and there is online support on Wednesdays and Saturdays if you need it. In the venue I attend there is also the Maths resource room, where tutors will help you through any difficult problems"
"The main benefits of doing this programme are your knowledge content is broadened and deepened into the curriculum. I am now confident to teach maths and explore the many methodologies to enhance the teaching and learning in my classroom. I am more confident in doing exam questions with the students and understand what is required to achieve full marks."
"I am delighted that this course has given me the opportunity to further my own professional qualifications while also continuing in my teaching career. This course will increase my subject knowledge and fully prepare me for the challenges that lie ahead for all Maths teachers. It encompasses all areas of Project Maths and provides methodologies, suggestions and advice on delivering the new curriculum. The support provided with this course has been excellent. The lectures are easy to follow and are available to view at any time from the website. Also additional support has been provided through one-on-one sessions over the internet which can be carried out at from your own home. This is a huge benefit to me and reinforces the ideas presented in lectures"