Specific Learning Difficulties - Sligo St. Angela's
Programme Overview
The programme provides a postgraduate qualification for all professionals interested in the area of Specific Learning Difficulties (SLD).
The Centre for Special Educational Needs, Inclusion and Diversity at St. Angela's College, Sligo has, in recent, years developed a number of online blended-learning options at postgraduate level for all professionals interested in the areas of Special Educational Needs (SEN). There are currently four modules to choose from in the area of Specific Learning Difficulties:
- Educational Research Methods
- Literacy
- Specific Learning Difficulties 1 - Communication, Speech and Language Difficulties and Dyslexia
- Specific Learning Difficulties 2 - Dyscalculia, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Dyspraxia/ Developmental Coordination Disorder
This modular blended learning course (which includes e-tivities, discussion boards and some face-to-face workshops) is offered over two years.
The aim of the modules is to provide substantial theoretical and practical continuing professional development for those interested in and/or working with learners with special educational needs.
Please note you may only choose one module per semester.
Subjects taught
Programme Outline
The standalone online blended learning modules involve e-tivities, discussion boards and face-to-face workshops and have a credit weighting of 15 ECTS. Modules are offered regularly over the academic year. All modules are completed within a nine week timeframe.
Completion of two modules from the list of three modules below (30 ECTS) = Postgraduate Certificate:
• Specific Learning Difficulties I - Communication, Speech and Language Difficulties and Dyslexia
• Specific Learning Difficulties II - Dyscalculia, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Dyspraxia/Developmental Coordination Disorder
• Literacy
Completion of four modules from the list below (60 ECTS) = Postgraduate Diploma in Arts:
• Specific Learning Difficulties 1 - Communication, Speech and Language Difficulties and Dyslexia
• Specific Learning Difficulties 2 - Dyscalculia, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Dyspraxia/Developmental Coordination Disorder
• Literacy
• Educational Research Methods
Please note you may only choose one module per semester.
Specific Learning Difficulties I and Literacy modules are due to commence October 2023 (with one Saturday workshop).
Specific Learning Difficulties II and Educational Research Methods modules due to commence January 2024 (with one Saturday workshop).
Entry requirements
Level 8 Undergraduate Degree (H2.2) or equivalent. For students without the relevant academic qualification but with relevant previous experience, recognition for prior learning can be awarded.
Application dates
Closing Date: 12th June 2023.
Duration
One Year, part-time (PG Certificate), Two years, part-time (PG Diploma).
Post Course Info
Further Education
Participants may progress to Masters level on successful completion of three modules which must include the online blended learning module: Educational Research Methods. The exit award will be a Master of Arts in Specific Learning Difficulties.
Career Opportunities
The modules attract a wide range of participants from a variety of settings, including:
Classroom teachers
Graduates who wish to do a Postgraduate Diploma in Education and are awaiting a place on the programme
Qualified teachers who are seeking full-time employment
Employees within the Health Service Executive who work with learners with Special Educational Needs
Principals, managers and Department Inspectorate
Employees and Managers within Early Childhood Education sector
Classroom assistants (including cuntóirí teanga)
Educational Psychologists
Learning Support Tutors
Speech and Language Therapists
Occupational Therapists
Physiotherapists
Parents and Family Members involved in the care of learners with special educational needs
Any others involved in the training or educational needs of learners with special educational needs