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Scholars from Ireland visit Texas State and Central Texas to help the "Development of Pedagogical Frameworks for Work-Based Learning"

irish scholars and faculty

(Pictured Left to Right: Dr. Brian O'Donnchadha, Ms. Lindsey Wilson, Dr. Omar Lopez, Dr. Niamh Nolan, Dr. Mary Jo Biggs, Ms. Nuala Mc Guinn and Dr. Todd Sherron)

In April 1st the OWLS Department welcomed Ms. Nuala McGuinn, Dr. Niamh Nolan and Dr. Brian O'Donnchadha from the Centre for Adult Learning and Professional Development NUI Galway, Nuns' Island Galway, Ireland.

The scholars visited in aim to learn more about our program and workforce development in Central Texas. The US visit project is titled 'Development of Pedagogical Frameworks for Work- Based Learning'.

The project visit aims to explore innovative approaches to and identify best practice methodologies in the design and development of teaching programmes which seeks to develop work-based learning/ apprenticeship style education within the higher education sector.  Such programmes provide an opportunity for employees to upskill while in employment, but also provide employers with an opportunity to identify specific skills sets necessary for the development of their workforce.  The project visit aims to identify the following elements in course design and delivery:

  • An innovative pedagogical framework which supports work-based learning programmes and apprenticeship-style education;
  • Tools used in the development of occupational profiling and competencies necessary for specific roles and industry sectors;
  • Innovative tools for assessment, collaborative learning and the development of online communities of practice;
  • Methods of course delivery which incorporate the employer within the workplace as a co-deliverer of training;
  • Recognition of Prior Learning providing routes of accreditation for training undertaken in the workplace which may be recognised as part of a higher education award;

Development of models of work-based learning which incorporate opportunities for students to work internationally either through short work placements abroad and/or through virtual communities of practice.