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Latest Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026

Module Title Learning & Teaching RE
Module Code EDS1047 (ITS: ED2302)
Faculty DCU Institute of Education School Human Development
NFQ level 8 Credit Rating 5
Description

This module investigates the development, structure, implementation and implications of Religious Education at Junior Cycle and Senior Cycle in Ireland today.

Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate a knowledge of current issues in religious education in Ireland today.
2. Investigate second-level RE specifications, syllabi and curriculum frameworks and their application in the RE classroom
3. Reflect critically on the professional teaching of religious education at Junior and Senior Cycle levels.
4. Prepare religious education resources including digital resources in accordance with relevant syllabi, specifications and curriculum frameworks and demonstrate responsible use of these resources with due regard for oneself and others.'
5. Begin to express a coherent religious education philosophy, reflecting a generous respect for young people from a variety of social, economic, cultural and religious backgrounds.


WorkloadFull time hours per semester
TypeHoursDescription
Lecture22One lecture each week for twenty two weeks
Seminars22Digital seminars and presentations
Online activity16Work on LOOP
Independent Study60Research, reading and preparation for assignments
Total Workload: 120
Section Breakdown
CRN10493Part of TermSemester 1 & 2
Coursework100%Examination Weight0%
Grade Scale40PASSPass Both ElementsN
Resit CategoryRC1Best MarkN
Module Co-ordinatorAmalee MeehanModule Teacher
Section Breakdown
CRN11325Part of TermSemester 1
Coursework100%Examination Weight0%
Grade Scale40PASSPass Both ElementsN
Resit CategoryRC1Best MarkN
Module Co-ordinatorAmalee MeehanModule Teacher
Assessment Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
Digital ProjectCreation and presentation of digital resource to support the teaching and learning of second level RE70%n/a
AssignmentCritical reflection on themes/content of the module30%n/a
Reassessment Requirement Type
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
RC1: A resit is available for both* components of the module.
RC2: No resit is available for a 100% coursework module.
RC3: No resit is available for the coursework component where there is a coursework and summative examination element.

* ‘Both’ is used in the context of the module having a coursework/summative examination split; where the module is 100% coursework, there will also be a resit of the assessment

Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Analyse the rationale underpinning second-level Religious Education in Ireland

Review the creative impact on Religious Education of the new Framework for Junior Cycle (2015)

Explore the specification for Junior Cycle Religious Education and its application

Consider the teaching of religious education in a range of school settings

Overview the Leaving Certificate Religious Education Syllabus and the Curriculum Framework for Senior Cycle

Become familiar with guidelines supporting the teaching and learning of RE

Prepare for teaching Religious Education during 2nd, 3rd and 4th Year Teaching Practice

Indicative Reading List

Books:
  • Byrne, G. and P. Kieran (eds),: 2013, Toward Mutual Ground: Pluralism, Religious Education and Diversity in Irish School, Columba, Dublin,
  • Catholic Schools Partnership: 2014, Catholic Education at Second­Level in the Republic of Ireland: Looking to the Future, Veritas, Dublin,
  • Council for Catechetics of the Irish Episcopal Conference: 2019, Junior Cycle Religious Education in the Catholic School, Veritas, Dublin,
  • Department of Education and Science: 2003, Leaving Certificate Religious Education Syllabus, Dublin,
  • Department of Education and Science: 2005, Religious Education, Leaving Certificate: Guidelines for Teachers, Government Publications, Dublin,


Articles:
  • Department of Education and Skills (DES).: 2015, Framework for Junior Cycle. Dublin: Department of Education and Skills, https://www.education.ie/en/Publications/Policy-Reports/Framework-for-Junior-Cycle-2015.pdf, 517372
  • 2000: Leaving Cert Applied Religious Education Draft, https://www.pdst.ie/sites/default/files/religion.pdf,
Other Resources

  • 1: Website, ETBI, 2022, ETB: Ethos and Core Values,

<< Back to Module List View 2024/25 Module Record for EDS1047