Therese and Hazel publish key research

Two primary school teachers on Leeside have had their dissertations recognised amongst a collection of research papers on education chosen for publication by Hibernia College.

These are Therese Barrett, a teacher at Scoil Niocláis in Grange and Hazel Scully, a teacher at Glasheen Boys' National School in Bishopstown.

As part of an ongoing programme highlighting key research works undertaken by graduates from its Post-Primary and Primary Education programmes, Therese’s research examined ‘the implementation of restorative practice (RP) in a primary school setting’. Her findings observed that to fully establish the transformative effects of restorative approaches, it can take anything up to three years to embed in a school. Hazel’s research examined whether ‘Looking and Responding’ activities in visual arts support student engagement and student verbal skills. Her findings identified the clear uncertainty about the concept of visual literacy amongst respondents.

Undertaken during their master’s degrees in primary teaching, Therese and Hazel’s full studies are available in print and can be read online through the Hibernia College website.

Dr Mary Kelly, Academic Dean at Hibernia College said their research was a testament to their dedication and hard work, and an important contribution to the advancement of knowledge and innovation in Irish schools.

She added: “Therese and Hazel’s work forms part of a wider collection of key research issues that permeate Irish education today, and which we are proud to showcase for the future benefit of teachers and students interested in that field”.