Accepting the challenge to shatter stereotypes

Society has been challenged to rethink and reimagine the concept of education and in doing so, shatter stereotypes and acquire a broader and richer understanding of what education is all about.

The challenge was issued by Professor Michael A Hayes, president of Mary Immaculate College (MIC) Limerick who was speaking at an award ceremony at MIC where three Clare students were among a group of 13 to graduate from the Programme in Contemporary Living (PCL).

The Clare graduates were Jessica Keegan (Feakle), Kate Crotty (Ennis) and Orla Hannon (Sixmilebridge).
The course includes as its objectives the promotion of lifelong learning for individuals with intellectual disabilities; the promotion of inclusion in the third level environment; the development of social skills through interaction; the fulfilment of personal educational interests; the enhancement of individual employability and the promotion of full citizenship and self determination.

Speaking on what the course meant to her, graduating student Jessica Keegan from Feakle said, “When I came to MIC first, I was very nervous and the first year was very challenging for me. But this semester was a turning point for me because I grew in confidence and I have learned to face new challenges in a more positive way. I am very grateful for the opportunity to be able to improve my existing skills.”

The course was first developed by the National Institute for Intellectual Disability in Trinity College Dublin before it was piloted in MIC in 2010. As part of the programme, participants undertook a range of different modules including money and budgeting skills, art and design, information and communication technology as well as a work placement module which included career development training.

Speaking at the ceremony Prof Hayes said, “One of the key tenets in the mission statement of MIC is the promotion of equity in society and the provision of an environment where all have freedom and opportunity to achieve their full potential.

“Our work in this area is a concrete embodiment of that vision. Traditionally, the students who are with us today would not have had access to a college education. Through this work, we challenge society to rethink and reimagine the concept of education and in doing so, shatter stereotypes and acquire a broader and richer understanding of what education is all about. It reminds us that education is a fundamental human right.”

“More importantly, this programme of inclusion encourages new pathways to independence, enhances academic learning, personal growth and career development, and, ultimately, leads to more effective participation in society.

“The central aim of this course is to promote lifelong learning and active citizenship providing a broader range of options in modern society.”

Highlights of the year’s programme included producing a short documentary, showcasing the programme and participating students. This programme has been submitted to the Ablevision Film Festival for screening later this month. Another highlight was the participation of the students in an inclusive learning music workshop using state of the art accessible technologies and software, allowing the students to devise their own instruments, compose a piece of music and undertake a performance.