St. Angela’s College, Sligo launched the beginning of its new online-blended learning programmes in Special Educational Needs (SEN) on 3rd September 2012. Ten modules in the area of SEN are being offered which combine a blended learning format with online learning components and face-to-face workshops.
The new postgraduate programme in Specific Learning Difficulties (SLDs) is a new development and is the first of its kind in Ireland. It has attracted nationwide interest with participants coming from the whole of Ireland to study at post graduate certificate, diploma and masters levels.
Dr. Ann Marie Casserly, Programme Coordinator and lecturer in Special Educational Needs in CSENID welcomed students to their first workshop at the College on Saturday, 8th September 2012. “This module aims to develop an awareness of the theory relating to SLD in the area of communication, speech and language difficulties and dyslexia, and to become knowledgeable of appropriate assessment, teaching and learning pedagogies in the provision of inclusive education for learners with SLDs.” explains Dr. Casserly. “The programme is designed to meet the needs of professionals who wish to develop professional skills required to identify and support learners with specific learning difficulties in a variety of settings. As much of the programme is delivered online we have attracted participants from all over the country which allows people to study in their own time in any location and continue to engage in their work commitments.”
The Postgraduate programmes in SLD and also PSSEN (Professional Studies in SEN) offer a progression pathway from Postgraduate Certificate, Diploma and Master of Arts qualification (Level 9) accredited by NUI Galway and would be of interest to Principals, Co-ordinators of Special Educational Needs (SEN), mainstream teachers, Learning Support/Resource teachers, tutors in other educational settings and members of multidisciplinary teams in relation to SEN.
The College is currently accepting applications for the following modules due to commence in November 2012:
� Challenging Behaviour (CB)
� General Learning Disabilities (GLDs)
� Specific Learning Difficulties II (SLD II)- Dyscalculia, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Dyspraxia/Developmental Coordination

For further information on the programme please review the Programme brochure here or the Programme Web page
To discuss the programme in detail, please contact the Centre for Special Educational Needs, Inclusion and Diversity at 071 91 95552 or education@stangelas.nuigalway.ie