Seminar on ‘Enhancing Learning in the First-Year’ 05.10.11

Approximately 60 staff from across the University attended the recent UCD workshop “Enhancing Learning in the First Year”, which was targeted towards staff with significant engagement in First- Year teaching.  The workshop provided an opportunity for UCD staff to hear first-hand from the Registrar Professor Mark Rogers why enhancement of the First-Year matters for our learners and for the University.  

A keynote from Professor Terry Mayes outlined some international developments in the enhancement of the First-Year experience drawing on case studies from Scotland and the United States.  Working in groups to address a case-study of a First-Year teaching scenarios, participants identified opportunities for improving the First-Year experience; the necessary teaching and learning supports to effect such changes, and key questions to be addressed by a Plenary Panel. 

There was also a spotlight on current good practice in UCD: Dr Fionnuala Dillane (President’s Teaching Award 2010) made a lively and engaging presentation on the pilot of the Writing Clinics in the College of Arts & Celtic Studies. Jonathan McNulty (Fellow in Teaching & Academic Development 2011-2013) presented a new project on examining professional identity in the first year of professional programmes.  Feedback on the event was very positive, staff enjoyed the networking and discussion opportunities and in particular the examples of UCD practice: “UCD Showcase – wonderful to hear new ideas – very invigorating'' (Workshop participant)