Co. Louth VEC schools initiate new approach to teaching Science

Co. Louth VEC has recently joined forces with the Discover Sensors project of the national Discover Science and Engineering (DSE) Programme that will see the introduction of a new and innovative approach to teaching science in its schools. The schools involved include O’Fiaich College in Dundalk, Bush Post-primary School in Riverstown, Dundalk, Scoil Uí Mhuirí in Dunleer and St. Oliver’s Community College in Drogheda.

DSE is the national integrated science, engineering and technology awareness programme managed by Forfás on behalf of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment. DSE’s main aim is to increase interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (or STEM subjects) among primary and post-primary students.

The Discover Sensors project will bring a new focus, and the integration of technology, to the teaching and learning of science in Co. Louth VEC schools. The project supports the use of sensor technology in hands-on scientific investigations by junior cycle Science students. It will help provide students with an experience of "real science" in the classroom by supporting the investigative approach promoted by the Science syllabus.

As part of the project DSE will deliver an integrated programme of continuous professional development to the science teachers of Co. Louth VEC. The teacher CPD programme will start next month and will incorporate a blended approach to using face-to-face, out of school, in school and on-line modules to the VEC science teachers.

Speaking about the initiative, Dr. Pádraig Kirk, CEO of Co. Louth VEC, said that he “was delighted for the VECs schools to be involved in this project; the project will mark the beginning of a strategic partnership between DSE and Co. Louth VEC, with both organisations working together to spearhead the importance of STEM in the development of the SMART economy”.

Partners in the Discover Sensors project include the National Centre for Technology in Education (NCTE), the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA), the Education Centre Network, the Professional Development Service for Teachers (PDST) and ICT Ireland (IBEC).