The course content in the first year focuses heavily on analysis and synthesis of previous experience and culminates in the creation of a portfolio which reflects on this experience/learning and relates it to future learning outcomes and goals. Along with this process, which is related to the APEL application, there is strong course content in research methodology related to special education, international perspectives and planning in special education provision, and inclusive education at both primary and secondary level. The research methods content is intensive and will provide participants with a thorough grounding in methodology that will be applied at policy, practice, and planning level in the future.

The second year of the programme is comprised mostly of the dissertation, which the participant is free to pursue, under mentored guidance conditions, in their own particular area of interest. There is less direct taught content in the second year however we will create a support network for all participants, including offering "clinics" during which the degree candidates will question and support each others research.

The degree will be accredited and conferred by Roehampton University, London. Our affiliation with Roehampton links the only two existing Froebel colleges of education in the world and creates an opportunity to explore new ventures in the future. The MA degree will incorporate into its overall philosophy the essence of Froebel's theories which focus on respect for the child and recognition that all children bring the gift of their learning strengths to the classroom, regardless of their perceived difficulties.

Yes, the MA is a part-time course completed on a part time basis and is compatible with full time employment.

The course can be completed in two years of part-time study. A maximum of three years is allowed to complete the course.

The course convenes on six weekends in the Froebel College of Education Dublin throughout the first academic year. There are also two intensive one-week courses, one at Easter 09, and another in July 09, at Roehampton in London. These intensive courses provide an opportunity to study with international experts and colleagues, visit special education schools and classrooms, and learn about the latest international trends in special education. In the second year of the programme there are fewer Saturday sessions, allowing for completion of the dissertation.

All applicants must have completed either a certificate or diploma in special education or learning support prior to entry. For those who do not have this required entry-level qualification it is possible to take our Post Graduate Diploma in Special Education Needs course before enrolling in the MA programme. Applicants must be qualified primary or secondary teachers.

Yes. There is a process available for participants to gain credit for all previous coursework, no matter how short or long. Previous relevant professional experience can also be accredited. This process is called APEL (Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning), and allows participants to wrap together previous learning and experience, analyse it, and create a portfolio reflecting higher learning outcomes. Up to 40 of a required 180 credits can be earned through the APEL process.

During year one the participants meet on six weekends in the Froebel College of Education in Dublin. There is a one-week at Easter and another week in July of the first year, both convened at Roehampton. This week of study includes a focus on research methods, preparing the participant to begin the process of writing the dissertation. The APEL process is also completed during the first year of the programme. A one-week intensive residential course is convened in July of the first year to complete research methodology in preparation for the dissertation.

During the second year there is less taught content in Dublin. A focus on mentoring the dissertation is put in place this year. There are also two modules, one focusing on international models of best practice in special education and one focusing on inclusion in special education.

Over the course of the two-year programme there is a strong emphasis on research methodology, review of critical literature, and reflective practice. Courses feature ample class discussion and group activities and frequent opportunities to engage with lecturers.

Year One

• 40 credits in APEL
• 40 credits in Research Methodology

Year Two

• 40 credits taught modules
  • International Practice
  • Inclusion
• 60 credits dissertation

Total number of credits = 180

Registration is limited to allow for discussion, class participation, and project work. There will be individual supervision of APEL and the dissertation

Participants are free to choose the focus of their dissertation but a value is placed on engagement in action research in the classroom, school, or community as it relates to special education.

Participants may avail of the extensive special education collection at the Froebel College of Education, Dublin that includes a large amount of video resources related to special education as well as print resources. The extensive library facilities of Roehampton, one of the UK's most respected schools of education, are also available to participants online and in person. The special education lecturing staff of Froebel Dublin is also available to support action research and other learner's needs as they progress through the programme.

Please contact the college.  A deposit of €50 is required with your application form.

Contact Breda Stanley Pickford at the college for enrolment forms.

Phone: + (0)1 2888520;
Fax: (0)1 2880618;
Email: bspickford@froebel.ie