B Ed in Education and Psychology (MI008)

Modules

This programme is awarded by the University of Limerick and accredited by the Teaching Council and the Psychological Society of Ireland. The programme leads to a professional qualification in primary school teaching and a Level 8 academic qualification in Psychology. The programme is particularly suitable for, although not confined to, students who may wish to undertake a postgraduate specialisation subsequently in the field of Educational Psychology. Nonetheless, programme graduates have the option of undertaking postgraduate studies in any field of Psychology and/or Education. Notably, the complimentary nature of Education and Psychology degrees within the programme adds to the quality of the programme and the excellence of its students and graduates. 

Education: The Education component of the programme equips participants with the competence to teach all levels within the primary school context (4-12 year olds). Given the structure of primary school provision, the teacher is required to have a mastery and competence in all curricular areas of the primary school. Students engage in on-campus study in the areas of foundation studies, professional studies and the subject disciplines, alongside School Placement. The programme is carefully planned with a strong focus on the relationship between theory and practice. Reflecting the College's well-established reputation for excellence in teacher education, the Education component of the programme enables students to examine their role as a learner, a teacher, a researcher and a leader.

Psychology: Psychology is studied throughout the four years of the programme. Key areas of study include:

• Developmental Psychology: Theory and Practice, Individual and Developmental Influences on Behaviour
• Introduction to Research
• Introduction to Social Psychology
• Understanding the Psychology of Behaviour
• Cognitive Psychology
• Research Design and Analyses
• Individuality, Difference, and Psychological Science
• Leading Teaching and Learning through Assessment
• Advanced Cognitive Psychology
• Applied Social Psychology
• Early Childhood Curriculum and Education
• Biological Basis of Behaviour
• Advanced Research Methods
• Advanced Issues in Educational Psychology
• Advanced Issues in Developmental Psychology

Students also select one elective in their final semester of the programme from a range of modules.

As part of the final year, students are required to undertake an undergraduate dissertation in Psychology. This independent research project typically involves an applied piece of research in Psychology, where students collect and analyse original empirical data. Students are encouraged to select a novel research question that is situated in contemporary psychological discourse. Following completion and write-up of the UGD, students present their research at ‘PsychFest’, an MIC-hosted psychology undergraduate research colloquium. Thereafter, MIC students are actively encouraged to disseminate their research beyond MIC at regional, national, and international events, as well as in publication format. Further information on the success of students and graduates of the B.Ed in Education and Psychology Programme available here.  

Gaeltacht Courses - Tréimhsí Foghlama sa Ghaeltacht

All Bachelor of Education students, including those on the Bachelor of Education in Education and Psychology Programme, are required to attend two residential placements in the Gaeltacht as part of their studies – Tréimhse Foghlama sa Ghaeltacht 1 agus 2. Tréimhse Foghlama sa Ghaeltacht 1 is taken in Year 1 of the programme and Tréimhse Foghlama sa Ghaeltacht 2 in Year 3. Each placement lasts two weeks.

This placement is funded by the Department of Education and Skills. Each of these modules is graded with an examination in oral Irish. Students take an examination in oral Irish after completing the first placement at the end of their first year of initial teacher education. Students must pass this examination in order to continue to the second year of the programme. A repeat of the examination in oral Irish is provided by the College. All Bachelor of Education students must have completed the two Gaeltacht placements successfully before entering year four of the programme.

Student Testimonials

Brian O’Neill, B Ed in Education and Psychology

Beginning my journey at MIC, I was set on a teaching career with the added bonus of Psychology to bolster this vocation. Although solidifying my passion for teaching with a range of practical and taught modules, the multiple Psychology disciplines covered has allowed me to think beyond the teaching profession.

The small numbers and supportive close-knit community on the programme has enabled me to develop strong relationships with lecturers. This created a personally tailored and highly supportive environment, which is unique at third-level.

Furthermore, the advantage of the small programme numbers extends into the close relationships that I formed with like-minded classmates. Such relationships enhanced both my academic work and student life.