Education Studies - Inquiry-Based Learning

This is an innovative and unique Masters course that taps into the widespread and growing interest in inquiry-based learning at all levels of education, from early childhood to higher education.

What is the Master in Education Studies (Inquiry-Based Learning)?
Despite the growing interest in this area, few opportunities exist in Ireland for students to study for a Masters degree where most of the credits are awarded for study and research in inquiry-based learning. This course aims to rectify this. The course is framed to provide clear interaction between theory and practice. A key feature of the course is to build a community of inquiry among participants, with a focus on collaborative tasks.

Who is the course for?
This course is open to teachers and anyone working as an educator in any profession or subject area, at any level.

What will I study?
In year 1, students will study four discrete modules consisting of a common core module, and three specialist Inquiry-Based Learning modules. In year 2, students focus on an area of interest, related to Inquiry-Based Learning within Education Studies, in greater depth, develop research skills and prepare a dissertation on a topic relevant to inquiry-based learning.

Subjects taught

Year 1
Module 1 – Introduction to Education Studies
– Pedagogy, learning styles and pedagogical tact
– Character, compassion, care, empathy and flourishing
– Well-being and critical thinking in education
– Postgraduate reading and writing

Module 2 – Learning through Inquiry
– Inquiry and the learner
– Inquiry-based teaching
– Nurturing a culture of inquiry
– Assessment in inquiry-based learning

Module 3 – Promoting Inquiry-Based Learning through Creative Technologies
– Theory and pedagogy of developing inquiry based learning through the application of technology in education
– Accessing educational resources online appropriate for creating and resourcing an IBL environment
– Experimentation with digital tools and toys to enrich children’s collaboration and inquiry
– Assessment of inquiry based learning supported by digital technologies

Module 4 – Inquiry-Based Learning & the Environment
– Inquiry in the natural environment
– Inquiry in the built environment
– Environmental inquiry in public spaces and for public debate
– Pedagogical opportunities for and assessment of
environmental inquiry learning

Year 2
Dissertation Module
– Research methodologies and research ethics
– The research design process
– Research proposal
– Dissertation

Entry requirements

– An honours degree (level 8) with second class honours or higher and at least three years’ teaching experience or equivalent professional experience.

– In exceptional cases students who meet the honours degree requirement but do not have the necessary experience, or who meet the professional experience but have only a level 7 degree may be considered for the course. Candidates may be shortlisted and invited to attend an interview and complete a written assignment as appropriate.

– English Language Requirement: Please check with admissions@mie.ie

Assessment Info

How is the course assessed?
Assessment is linked to the modular nature of the course. It consists of a variety of assessment methods in year 1 followed by a research proposal and dissertation in year 2.

Credits

ECTS Credits: 90

Duration

2 years part-time.

More details
  • Qualification letters

    MA

  • Qualifications

    Degree - Masters (Level 9 NFQ)

  • Attendance type

    Part time

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    Course provider