News
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Maura Gallahue of the National Institute for Intellectual Disability has been awarded an MSc Disability Studies. To view the abstract of Maura’s research entitled “The Exploration of Multimedia as a Method of Enhanced Learning for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities”
Abstract
Maura Gallahue
The Exploration of Multimedia as a Method of Enhanced Learning for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities
Video and other media forms in multimedia environment can be effective for learning, especially in designs aimed at a constructivist notion of effective learning. Research has been done using specific designs and components and comparing multimedia to traditional learning approaches. However, little research has been conducted with individuals with Intellectual Disabilities. More studies that test specific variables and components of designs that are conceived based on the same content, but presented in different forms to communicate the same subject matter, are needed. The present study on multimedia as a method of improved learning is designed to help address this specific knowledge gap.
In this mixed-method study, a pre-test/post-test was carried out with eleven people with Intellectual Disabilities who were randomly assigned to either an accessible (multimedia) or non-accessible (text) website. Out of the eleven who took part in the quantitative part of the study, five people volunteered to take part in a semi-structured interview. The research data was collected from the demographic questionnaire, the pre-test/post-test knowledge quiz on exercise, and the interviews.
The research findings from the mixed-method study underlines the need for a change in the way information is designed and can be communicated with people with ID. The multimedia website outperformed the text website confirming the benefits of multimedia as a method of enhanced learning.
The results of this study can provide practical benefits for people with ID. Understanding how well designed experiences can have positive outcomes on people’s knowledge can encourage Web designers and indeed educators to include accessibility for ID in the design of more websites to ensure better preparation for accessible information. In addition, understanding the way in which learning is aided through multimedia can have a significant impact on the way in which people with ID can be supported in the communication of information.
11th July 2013
"Just like being at the Oscars!"
That's how one of our students described the Annual NIID Ball which was held on the 31st of May at the Radisson Blu Hotel on Golden Lane.
It was a glamorous night with everyone dressing up for the occasion. For some of our students it was the first time they had ever experienced an occasion like this so that made it very special for them.
Everyone enjoyed the wonderful food and great music and danced the night away. The students really enjoyed meeting their friends and colleagues socially outside of the classroom setting.
The Ball was very well supported by 1st and 2nd year students, their families, friends and the staff from the NIID. A fantastic night was had by all and we look forward to next year and doing it all over again.
Left Pic Students: Kevin Buckley & Conaill O'Hobain
Right Pic Student: Clara Keogan
Left Pic Students: Mary Gibney, Siobhan Donohue, Evan Hogan & Jennifer Clarke.
Right Pic Students: Anna Brennan & Margaret Turley
08th July 2013
BARCELONA AWAY TRIP FOR 2ND YEAR CCL STUDENTS
CAPP - Barcelona Group Reflection 2013
This year in April we went to Barcelona for our Social Science International Away trip 2013.
As a group, we have discussed and reflected on what we enjoyed about the trip and what we feel captured with our photographs.
Overall Highlights of the Trip:
We really enjoyed the trip to a university; this was called the Universitat de Barcelona. We enjoyed this because it was interesting to meet the Spanish students and learned about what they studied at the University. We also got the oppurtunity to talk to them about Trinity College and what we study here on the CCL programme.
It was great fun going for dinner with the group and travelling independently. For some of us it was the first time we had been abroad without our family and we expereinced new things like checking in at the airport by ourselves. It was also lovely to expereince another culture and nice weather for a change. It also gave us an opporunity to imporve our spanish.
What we enjoyed the most:
After a lenghtly discussion with the group we have indentified a range of aspects that we enjoyed the most about our 4 days in Barcelona.
The hop on & hop off bus allowed us to see the city in a fun way. Sampling spanish food in the restaurants was really exciting. For lots of us we enjoyed the Poble Espangol, this is a Park that represents the different autonomies in Spain. We were given a map which was colourfully laid out to explain the various architecturally designed buildings that represent the different parts of the Country
It was really intersting listening to the different languages and travelling on the underground to the universitites. The shops offer us lots of opportunites to buy gifts and items for ourselves. On the last night we headed to a Spanish Bar, it was great fun to sample the local drinks and expereince what the atmosphere is like in a Spanish bar.
New things we learnt on the Trip:
On this away trip we learned how to understand the History and culture of Spain and appreciate the beautiful buildings and architecture. It is so different to Ireland.
We tasted Spanish food for example, Paella, tapas and Spanish Omlette. Some people never tried this type of food before and they loved it.
It was interesting listening to the Spanish people speaking and we were able to practise the words we learned in class.
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Highlights of the Trip:
Being away from home because it was my first time being abroad without my family. And also checking in on my own for the first time. CCL Student.
Travelling as a group with other students and going out to dinner at night. Loved eating Spanish food as it is very different to our Irish food. CCL Student.
It was great to feel independent even though we were travelling as a group and everyone was very supportive to each other. CCL Student.
08th July 2013
Dr John Kubiak of the National Institute for Intellectual Disability has been awarded a post-doctorate research position and bursary with the School of Education. This award will enable him to publish and disseminate his doctorate research findings both nationally and internationally. To view the abstract of John's research entitled ' Intellectually Disabled Students’ Experiences of Learning in Tertiary Education: an Inclusive Phenomenography' click here.
20th June 2013
The Social History of Learning Disability<http://www.open.ac.uk/hsc/ldsite> (SHLD) research group of The Open University are pleased to announce their 2013 Annual Conference will take place on the 8th July 2013. This year’s conference is titled
‘Avoiding more Winterbourne Views: What can we learn from history?’
The scandal of abuse at Winterbourne View has horrified the country, and led to numerous reports and vows to do better in future. Yet such scandals occur with depressing regularity – Ely Hospital, Longcare, Cornwall, Sutton and Merton, and now Winterbourne View, and the reports make similar recommendations which do not get implemented. Norman Lamb, the Minister of State now responsible for improving support, recently commented that ‘we thought we had addressed the problem of long stay hospitals, but quietly, it was developing again behind the curtains’.
This year’s conference looks to history to help us shed light on the times when things don’t go wrong – to think about what makes for good care and better systems. Hear and discuss stories of local support, past and present, to improve understanding of what, in practice, has supported people to remain resident in their locality of choice.
We are pleased to announce that Margaret Flynn, author of South Gloucestershire Council’s Independent Review of the events at Winterbourne View exposed on the May 2011 Panorama programme, will be our Keynote Speaker.
The Conference will feature papers from academics, family members, staff, professionals, commissioners and people with learning disabilities which explore:
* What can we learn from history to help avoid more scandals and abuse?
* What has enabled people, including those with severe and profound disabilities or with challenging behaviour, to stay local?
* What part does life story work play in helping people to receive support in their local area?
* What roles do families and allies play – advocates, friends, relatives, – in making sure care remains good?
* What is the role of advocacy, self-advocacy and circles of support?
* How far have changes in policy and regulatory regimes made a difference?
* The contribution of learning disability professions such as psychiatry, nursing and social work.
Registration for this exciting event is now available at http://www.open.ac.uk/health-and-social-care/main/research/research-events/shld-conference-2013
Our conferences are inclusive events. All are welcome. We do our utmost to ensure that the event is accessible and that everyone’s voice can be heard.
Best wishes
The Social History of Learning Disability Conference Team
Faculty of Health and Social Care, Horlock, Room 115, Walton Hall, Milton Keynes, MK7 6AA
Tel: 01908 654359 Fax: 01908 654124 Email: shld-conference@open.ac.uk<mailto:shld-conference@open.ac.uk> Web: http://www.open.ac.uk/hsc/ldsite
For more information on this conference, please click the link here for the PDF Flyer. here
20th June 2013
NIIDOpenDay2013
The NIID is currently undergoing an external review which will continue over the summer months. For this reason, the Management Committee has decided not to proceed with an intake of students for 2013-2014.
Consequently the proposed Open Day which was due to take place this May has now been cancelled. The next Open Day will be in April or May 2014.
03rd May 2013
Open Evening: M.Sc. in Disability Studies
School of Social Work and Social Policy, TCD
Thursday, March 21st from 16.30 to 18.30
Room 2026, Arts Building, Trinity College Dublin
(Entrance via Nassau Street)
The M.Sc. in Disability Studies at Trinity College Dublin is now taking applications for the 2013 intake.
This M.Sc. programme, which can be completed on a one year, full-time or a two year, part-time basis, is an innovative programme that provides students with a deep understanding of disability from social, historical, cultural, economic, and political perspectives.
Graduates of the M.Sc. are equipped with the knowledge, analytical skills and perspectives to translate rights into reality in the field of disability.
You will have the opportunity at our Open Evening to hear more about this M.Sc. and to speak directly to the teaching team and graduates of the programme.
For more information on the programme, see http://www.socialwork-socialpolicy.tcd.ie/postgraduate/progs/msc-disability.php.
Apply here: http://www.tcd.ie/courses/postgraduate/az/course.php?id=DPTSW-DISS-1F09
ALL WELCOME!
Please RSVP to Laura Cusack at lcusack@tcd.ie. There will be ISL interpretation at the lecture.
Please indicate if you require access accommodations when you RSVP.
NIID Student Art Exhibition
The Printing House, Trinity College Dublin 17th - 18th December 2012
Students: Helen Cooney, Ian Brady & Jennifer Clarke.
The fourth NIID student art exhibition took place in The Printing House TCD on 17-18th December 2012. A total of 49 paintings and prints were displayed covering a large variety of subject matter. Titles such as ‘Landscape with Church’, ‘Stare’, ‘Abstract’ and ‘Daisies against a Blue Sky’ reflect the nature of the personal experiences of the exhibiting artists.
Several of the works were sold over the two day exhibition that was described by the Irish Independent as “a spontaneous riot of joyous colours… and an astounding body of artworks that bore no labels”.
In his opening address, the Provost of Trinity College Dr Patrick Prendergast congratulated the students: As pioneers in this educational programme, your example will inspire future generations, and will help to determine the direction this programme takes. Your commitment, hard work and creativity, on show today, has meant that not only have you raised the barrier of what we expect of you, but you have helped towards building a more inclusive, ethical and respectful society for the future.
Responding to the Provost’s opening address, John Kubiak, Teaching and Learning Officer of the NIID, spoke about the role emotions have in art and how painting was a catalyst for students to become more emotional aware, a process that can help express how students feel on a particular day, whether it is angry, sad, happy or excited. The exhibition was funded by the Margaret McLoughlin Art Project, This funding is helping to expand and enrich the opportunities for students of the NIID to develop their creative intelligence and skills.
23 January 2013
USA Trip
Washington, 28th - 30th November 2012
Building on the success of the 2011 CCL Presentation at the State of the Art Conference on Post Secondary Education in Washington and through support from the NIID Business Network, Molly O’Keeffe , Education Officer on the Certificate in Contemporary Living (CCL) travelled and presented this year with CCL graduate, Tomas Murphy and his mother, Sheila Murphy.
The presentation highlighted strategies used for the inclusion of CCL undergraduate students within the business and employment community in Ireland. It also discussed the development of the NIID Business Network as a source of funding for the course, work placements for the CCL students, while the network continues to develop best practice is in this area and advocate for equality within the workplace for people with intellectual disabilities. It also shared the journey of the CCL and life after college for a CCL graduate and his mother.
This Irish delegation represented one of the two international speakers and from over forty presentations was the only one to include the knowledge, expertise and voices of both a person with intellectual disabilities and their family member. The conference also offered the group an opportunity to meet and discuss a range of potential collaborations which could include a CCL international student exchange programme, a international research study that focuses on post secondary education, the development of best practise in the areas of transition and inclusion employment opportunities for graduates of the programmes like the CCL.
For more information on this conference, please click the link here. http://kihd.gmu.edu/policy/conference/
23 January 2013
Disability through the Life Course By Dr. Tamar Heller, University of Illinois at Chicago
M.Sc. in Disability Studies - 2012-2013 Public Lecture Series
Thursday 4th October 2012, 5.30pm in the Long Room Hub, Trinity College Dublin
In this Disability Studies public lecture, Dr Heller explores how disability interacts with social determinants (e.g., culture and socioeconomic status) and environmental aspects (e.g., services and supports) across the life course, resulting in differing outcomes for people with disabilities. Dr. Heller’s talk will focus on changes in health, families, community participation and self-determination throughout the life course.
Tamar Heller, Ph.D., Professor, is Head of the Department of Disability and Human Development, University of Illinois at Chicago and director of its University Center of Excellence in Developmental Disabilities for the State of Illinois. She also directs the Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Aging with Developmental Disabilities: Lifespan Health and Function and projects on family support and health promotion interventions for individuals with disabilities. One of these projects is the Special Olympics Research Collaborating Center.
Dr. Heller has written nearly 200 publications on family support interventions and policies, self-determination, health promotion, and aging of people with developmental disabilities. She has co-edited and co-written four books and edited special issues of Technology and Disability, American Journal on Mental Retardation, Journal of Policy and Practice in Intellectual Disabilities, and Family Relations.
She is past President of the board of the Association of University Centers on Disabilities. As a co-founder of the national Sibling Leadership Network, she is a member of its executive committee. Her awards include the 2009 Autism Ally for Public Policy Award of The Arc/The Autism Program of Illinois; the 2008 Lifetime Research Achievement Award, International Association for the Scientific Study of Intellectual Disabilities, Special Interest Group on Aging and Intellectual Disabilities; and the 2009 Community Partner Award of Community Support Services. In 2005 she was Senator Obama’s delegate to the White House Conference on Aging.
CCL - New applications remain open for 2012
The Certificate in Contemporary Living is a two year, full time Trinity College Certificate programme. This Certificate was the first full time course for adults with intellectual disabilities in Ireland. It is a specially designed programme, provided in a tertiary setting, aimed at supporting students as they make transitions towards independence, lifelong learning and employment.
Closing date for new applications has been extended to end of August 2012. To apply for a place on the course please download application form CCL Application form 2012
For further information please contact:
Ms Molly O'Keeffe
Education Officer, NIID
2 August 2012
STOP-Bullying Workshop: Friday 31st August 2012
The next STOP-Bullying Workshop will take place on Friday 31st August 2012. This workshop is specifically for people who have an intellectual disability.
For further information or to secure a place please email akenned@tcd.ie
The workshop will start at 10.30am and finish at 3.30pm on Friday 31st August 2012. It will be held at the National Institute of Intellectual Disability, 4th Floor, 3 College Green Dublin 2. The entrance is on Dame Street beside Starbucks. Click here for location
The Anti-bullying Initiative is run by a group of self-advocates with the support of their Advocacy Development Officer. The workshops are facilitated by The National Anti-Bullying Advocacy Group. They believe that bullying for people who have an intellectual disability is very serious and needs to stop. The group have designed two types of workshops that run throughout the year:
- A workshop specifically designed for people who have an intellectual disability
- A workshop specifically designed for people who support people with an intellectual disability
The workshops are run by the National Anti-Bullying Advocacy Group, NAAG, who are self-advocates (people with intellectual disabilities speaking up and speaking out for their rights), along with supporters and allies from all over Ireland.
2 July 2012
PATH: CCL Students Plan their Future
Over the past two weeks, 2nd year students who have recently completed the Certificate in Contemporary Living undertook an individual PATH process to enable them to plan their future after college. The 2-3 hour workshop was facilitated by CCL Staff with the support of Social Work and Social Policy students on placement at the NIID.
PATH was developed by Jack Pearpoint, Marsha Forest and John O‘Brien from 1991 onwards. It can be used as a planning style with individuals and with organisations. When used in person centred planning, the person and the people she wants to invite meet together with two facilitators to work through the process. PATH works well when an individual has a group of people around her who are committed to making things happen. Using the PATH process enables people to understand and take control of the situation. "PATH is there when a situation is complex and will require concerted action, engaging other people and resources, over a longish period in order to make an important vision real."
Pearpoint J, O’Brien J and Forest M, ’PATH: A workbook for planning positive, possible futures‘ Toronto Inclusion Press.
My PATH: John Corcoran, 2nd Year CCL Student
I had my PATH meeting with Molly O’Keeffe and Siobhan Mitchell on Monday the 18th June 2012. My mum and my brother were at the meeting too. My PATH meeting was to help me to think about what I want to do next for my future. Molly asked me lots of questions about my life and Siobhan wrote down my answers on a huge poster with words and pictures. She used lots of colours and I was the yellow man. I felt good at the meeting and talking about my dreams and my goals. I was happy.
Everybody listened to me and thought of ways to help me to do the things I want to do. At the end of the meeting we looked at my poster and Molly said I was very creative and she liked my poster. I took my poster home with me and showed it to my dad. He said it was great and he is very proud of me. I feel very proud too. I want to say thank you to Molly and Siobhan and the CCL staff.
PATH: A parent's perspective, Yvonne Corcoran
As a parent, John’s PATH meeting was quite an emotional experience for me. Molly and Siobhan were so respectful in how they helped John to identify his own personal dreams and goals and it was really wonderful to hear him speak for himself as an individual. Having John’s wishes for his life physically charted on a poster helped us to identify and structure the supports he needs to achieve his goals both in the short term and for the long term.
In essence it helped us to see the woods from the trees and to realise that 99% of what John wants is very realistic and very achievable for him with a little bit of support. He just wants to lead an ordinary life like everyone else. Placing finite dates on John’s poster by which time certain steps must be taken or goals achieved provides us with a momentum and structure on how to proceed. Life cannot and should not stay the same for anyone and the PATH process has been very beneficial in supporting him (and us) in transitioning from the NIID. We have all now found a new focus and have already taken steps towards supporting John to achieve two of his goals. Many thanks to Molly, Siobhan and the CCL team.
2 July 2012
Announcing Open Evening for M.Sc. in Disability Studies
The next Open Evening for the M.Sc. in Disability Studies will be held on Thursday May 24th 2012 from 4.15pm. to 5.45pm at NIID, 4th Floor, 3 College Green, Room 4.01 (Entrance via Dame Street beside Starbucks). Click here for location
This M.Sc. programme, which can be completed on a one year, full-time or a two year, part-time basis, is an innovative programme that provides students with a deep understanding of disability from social, historical, cultural, economic, and political perspectives. Graduates of the M.Sc. are equipped with the knowledge, analytical skills and perspectives to translate rights into reality in the field of disability.
You will have the opportunity at the Open Evening to hear more about this M.Sc. and to speak directly to the teaching team and graduates of the programme. Tea, coffee and snacks served. All are welcome!
http://www.socialwork-socialpolicy.tcd.ie/postgraduate/progs/msc-disability.php
10 May 2012
John Kubiak recipient of Provost’s Teaching Awards 2012
Congratulations to John Kubiak, Teaching and Learning Officer/Curriculum, for the CCL at NIID as one of the recipients of the Provost’s Teaching Awards for 2012. The Provost’s Teaching Award Scheme is designed to recognise and reward those who have made an outstanding contribution in the pursuit of teaching excellence. The prestige of the award reflects the value which Trinity places on promoting teaching as a scholarly activity and the importance placed on enriching the learning opportunities of its students.
9 May 2012
MSc in Disability Studies Graduate Presents Findings of Thesis at the 2012 Annual Conference
MSc in Disability Studies Graduate Presents Findings of Thesis at the 2012 Annual Conference of the Association of Occupational Therapists of Ireland. Sue Kraftsoff, a graduate of the MSc in Disability Studies (2011), recently presented the findings of her thesis at ‘Occupation is Our Unique Focus’- the 2012 Annual Conference of the Association of Occupational Therapists of Ireland. Her thesis is entitled ‘A view of quality of life for a sample of Irish adults with physical disabilities’ and was supervised by Professor Robbie Gilligan. The paper based on the thesis was presented at a session relating to the theme of ‘Occupation and Quality of Life’.
1 May 2012
CCL Student Ball 2012
The Annual NIID CCL Ball took place at the Radisson Blu Hotel last Friday 27th April. The night was a huge success where students, NIID staff, their guests along with fellow Trinity students danced the night away. The CCL ball was organised and funds were raised by the CCL students together with the support of their student support officers. “The music rocked, and the dessert was yum”. CCL Student
1 May 2012
Certificate in Contemporary Living Students Undertake Educational Field Trip to Barcelona, Spain
Students from the second year of the Certificate in Contemporary Living course (CCL) and staff from the National Institute for Intellectual Disability recently undertook a four-day educational field trip to Barcelona, Spain. This international field trip has been an annual event undertaken as part of the Social Science: An International Perspective module on the course. All aspects and planning of the trip are organised by the students in class. Over the four days, students and staff enjoyed a range of cultural, historical and social activities. Highlights of this year’s trip included a bus tour of the city, exploring Gaudi Park, a traditional flamenco show, visiting a Spanish food market and sampling the local cuisine.
The final element of the trip requires the students to prepare a power-point presentation comparing Ireland and Spain through a range of topics chosen by the students on their return from the trip. This year presentations by the students will focus on the following areas; history, tourism and consumerism, culture, music and dancing, and traditional cuisine.
"This was the first time I have travelled abroad without my parents, it was great fun and I loved tasting the different Spanish food, Gaudi park was cool." CCL Student
25 April 2012
CCL Open Day hosted at NIID
The Open Day for the Certificate in Contemporary Living (CCL) was held yesterday, 23 April 2012 at the National Institute for Intellectual Disability (NIID), 4th Floor, 3 College Green. The CCL team provided information on the certificate course in a morning and afternoon session to the interested candidates who attended.
The Certificate in Contemporary Living is a two year, full time Trinity College Certificate programme. This Certificate was the first full time course for adults with intellectual disabilities in Ireland. It is a specially designed programme, provided in a tertiary setting, aimed at supporting students as they make transitions towards independence, lifelong learning and employment.
Closing date for application 4th May 2012. Download application form CCL Application form 2012.
Candidates will be shorlisted by 18th May followed by interviews from the18th June. Feedback letters will be sent out from the 2nd July 2012.
For further information please contact Ms Ailish Kennedy
24 April 2012
Stop-Bullying Workshop: Friday 27th April 2012
The Workshop this Friday 27th April 2012 is specifically for people who have an intellectual disability.
Download booking form Friday 27th April 2012
The workshop will start at 10.30am and finish at 3.30pm on Friday 27th April, 2012. It will be held at the National Institute of Intellectual Disability, 4th Floor, 3 College Green Dublin 2. The entrance is on Dame Street beside Starbucks. Click here for location
The Anti-bullying Initiative is run by a group of self-advocates with the support of their Advocacy Development Officer. The workshops are facilitated by The National Anti-Bullying Advocacy Group. They believe that bullying for people who have an intellectual disability is very serious and needs to stop. The group have designed two types of workshops that run throughout the year:
- A workshop specifically designed for people who have an intellectual disability
- A workshop specifically designed for people who support people with an intellectual disability
The workshops are run by the National Anti-Bullying Advocacy Group, NAAG, who are self-advocates (people with intellectual disabilities speaking up and speaking out for their rights), along with supporters and allies from all over Ireland.
13 April 2012
School hosts MSc in Disability Studies Open Evening
The first of two open evenings for the MSc in Disability Studies was held yesterday, 22 March 2012, at Trinity College Dublin. The MSc in Disability Studies team, along with current students, were on-hand to provide information to interested candidates about the course. The MSc in Disability Studies is an innovative course providing a common ground for the inter-disciplinary study of disability and is available as either a one- year, full-time, or two-year, part-time, option. Download the open evening presentation here. Details of the second open evening will be announced shortly.
Download the MSc in Disability Studies Brochure here. View course video here.
For further information please contact Ms Ailish Kennedy.
23 March 2012
An Evening with the Taoiseach - Tomas Murphy
Last February I received an e-mail from Hugo Mac Neill, Chairman of the Ireland Fund and was delighted to see that I had received an invitation to a reception with the Taoiseach Mr. Enda Kenny TD, in the Royal Hibernian Academy on the 7th Febru.ary 2012.
It was an event to thank the many supporters of The Promising Ireland Campaign, throughout Ireland.
As the day approached, I could feel myself getting excited at the thought of meeting everyone, and perhaps a chance to see again the many wonderful people I had recently met when I travelled with Molly O’ Keeffe to New York to speak at the America/Ireland Fund about the Contempory Living Course, NIID in Trinity College, to a group of Trinity College New York Alumni, and young leaders before travelling on to Washington to talk at the 2011 State of the Art Conference, on Post Secondary Education for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
I had a magical evening at the reception of the Promising Ireland Campaign, and it was great to meet Mr. Kieran McLoughlin again . I felt so privileged to have met such wonderful people who made me feel so welcome and was honored to have met the Taoiseach.
Thanks again Hugo for your kind invitation, and to the Ireland Funds for supporting the NIID and my trip to America!
Tomas Murphy, CCL Graduate
20 March 2012
Disability Association of Ireland
The second meeting for the Disability Studies Association of Ireland (DSAI) took place on March 12th 2012 at University College Dublin (UCD). With the purpose of identifying the aims of the DSAI and ways to achieve them, over 60 people attended the meeting including researchers and academics, service providers, representatives from disability organisations, and students.
The organising committee for the meeting was led by Professor Gerard Quinn, Centre for Disability Law and Policy, National University of Ireland Galway (NUIG), and included academics and researchers from NUIG, UCD, Trinity College Dublin (TCD), Ulster University, and Disability Action. Professor Dan Goodley, from Manchester Metropolitan University, United Kingdom (UK), gave a keynote on the experiences of the UK Disability Studies Association.
Academics and researchers from the National Institute for Intellectual Disability (TCD), representing the M.Sc. in Disability Studies, and the Certificate in Contemporary Living, attended the meeting. The first open meeting of the DSAI was held at TCD in December 2011 and it was agreed that a third one would be organised in 2012. For further information, please contact the TCD representative for the DSAI, Dr. Edurne Garcia Iriarte, at iriartee@tcd.ie
Prof Roy Mcconkey, Public Lecture: National Datasets
Prof. Roy McConkey, University of Ulster, gave a Public Lecture entitled: “National Datasets: Their contribution to monitoring and improving services” on March 6th at the National Institute for Intellectual Disability as part of the M.Sc. in Disability Studies seminar series. Prof. McConkey’s presentation focused on the Irish National Intellectual Disability Database and provided an overall picture of service delivery to people with intellectual disabilities in the Republic of Ireland over time and comparisons with service delivery in Northern Ireland. The public lecture was presented to a full room including researchers, people with intellectual disabilities and their family members, professionals, service providers and students. For more information on Prof. McConkey’s lecture, please email Prof. Roy McConkey at R.McConkey@ulster.ac.uk. For more information on the M.Sc. in Disability Studies Public Lectures, please email akenned@tcd.ie.
24 February 2012
Ireland Funds Event
Left to right: Tomas Murphy, CCL Graduate; Taoiseach Enda Kenny; Sheila Murphy; Dr. Eoin O'Sullivan, Senior Lecturer in Social Policy and Head of School, Trinity College; Molly O'Keeffe, Education Officer; NIID and Kieran McLoughlin, President & CEO, The Worldwide Ireland Funds
Left to right: Hugo MacNeil, Chairman, Ireland Funds; Taoiseach Enda Kenny and Tomas Murphy, CCL Graduate, Trinity College Dublin
The group attend the Ireland Funds event on 7th of February at the Royal Hibernian Academy. An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny addressed over 200 supporters of The Ireland Funds. This event was held to thank supporters of the Promising Ireland Campaign and to recognise the important work of the organisations throughout Ireland that receive funding and support from the Ireland Funds. Both Hugo and Kieran also spoke at the event. Tomas Murphy and Molly O’Keeffe recently travelled to America to present the work of the National Institute for Intellectual Disability (NIID) and its innovative programme, Certificate in Contemporary Living (CCL) to a group of Trinity New York Alumni and Young Leaders before presenting at the 2011 State of the Art Conference on Postsecondary Education and Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities. The Trip was supported by the Ireland Funds, previous funding has allowed the CCL students to showcase their talents in the area of the expressive arts.
13 February 2012
Staff News
8 February 2012
The NIID and the School of Social Work and Social Policy are pleased to welcome a new colleague, Dr Fintan Sheerin, to the National Institute for Intellectual Disability. Dr Sheerin takes up the post of Acting Academic Director at the Institute. Dr Sheerin is a lecturer in intellectual disability nursing at Trinity College Dublin, School of Nursing and Midwifery. Since he commenced nurse training 24 years ago, he has worked with people who have intellectual disabilities in many service areas and none.
One of his earliest roles was as an educator, providing preliminary education to a class of five teenagers with intellectual disabilities and severe behavioral challenges. More recent contact with people with intellectual disabilities in the context of the participatory action group, ID Rights, caused him to significantly change his perspectives on disability and brought him into the area of social action and human rights. This is his philosophy and driving force and is finding expression through critical pedagogical endeavour. His research areas include the Intellectual Disability Supplement to The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing, women with disabilities' experience of public health services during pregnancy, childbirth and early motherhood and LGBT. He is currently leading an evaluation of a community-based initiative at a Dublin intellectual disability service. He teaches on the B.Sc. in intellectual disability nursing, on the Bachelor in Social Studies and the M.Sc. in Disability Studies. He is vice-president of the European nursing informatics association, ACENDIO and is exploring the role of eHealth in achieving better health outcomes for people with intellectual disabilities. He has published widely in intellectual disability and nursing journals.
Volunteer News
1 February 2012
The NIID are delighted to welcome Ms Noel Paton Rodriguez to the Institute. Noel will be volunteering in the NIID until June and will work specifically with the CCL team to further her knowledge of the delivery of an education programme for adults with ID.
Noel's visit has the support of the Grundtvig Assistantship of OAPEE (European Education and Training Program) which is a training programme that assists professionals involved in the education of adults with ID experience other similar programmes across the EU.
Noel's background is in the education of adults with ID. Her degree from the Universidad Autonoma de Madrid is in Psychopedagogy. Within this programme she was also involved in other projects that promote the social inclusion for graduate students.
Facilitation Skills 15th February-4th April
16 December 2012
The course of eight two-hour sessions will provide participants with an understanding of the theory and skills of facilitation and enable them to achieve competence as a facilitator. It will be delivered by John Kubiak, National Institute for Intellectual Disability (NIID), School of Social Work and Social Policy and Dr. Gemma Donnelly-Cox, Centre for Non-profit Management, School of Business, Trinity College Dublin. Enquiries: akenned@tcd.ie Applications by post to: The Executive Officer, National Institute for Intellectual Disability, School of Social Work and Social Policy, Trinity College, 4th Floor, 3 College Green, Dublin 2. Details printable version. Download booking form
M.Sc. in Disability Studies Seminar Series
16 December 2011
Public Lecture by Prof. Roy McConkey
The next in the series of seminars hosted by the M.Sc. in Disability Studies will take place on Monday, March 6th 2012 from 4.30pm - 6.00pm in the NIID 4th Floor, 3 College Green. To book a place please contact akenned@tcd.ie
The title of the talk is: National datasets: Their contribution to monitoring and improving services
Prof. McConkey's lecture will focus on the National Intellectual Disability Database and a series of longitudinal studies conducted over the last 10 years in Ireland. National datasets have been promoted as the major driver for reforming service provision and monitoring improvements. These studies, conducted in collaboration with the Health Research Board, reveal that the intra-country variation on demographics and service usage of people with Intellectual Disabilities in Ireland is particularly marked. Prof. McConkey will discuss how Ireland could lead Europe in demonstrating if this is indeed possible.
Roy McConkey is Professor of learning Disability at the University of Ulster with a joint appointment with the Northern Ireland Health & Social Care Board. He has worked in the field of intellectual disability for nearly 40 years and undertaken consultancies for various United Nations agencies and international NGOs in Asia and Africa. He is a Visiting Professor at the University of Cape Town and with Trinity College, Dublin. In 2010 the American Association for Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities selected him for their international award.
M.Sc. in Disability Studies Graduation
12 December 2011
The National Institute for Intellectual Disability is delighted to celebrate the graduation of our first cohort of graduates on the M.Sc. in Disability Studies. The knowledge and skills obtained by our graduates is particularly important at this time of tremendous change in disability policy and practice at both national and international level. Our graduates are very well placed to drive this change agenda and transform the disability landscape.
(L to R) Sue Kraftsoff, Amy O'Connor, Carline Thompson, Imelda Gaughan
Research Prize
7 December 2011
The Australasian Society of Intellectual Disability (ASID) has awarded their 2011 International Research Prize to an academic paper authored by Associate Professor Christine Linehan and colleagues from 14 countries throughout Europe. The paper, ‘Ageing and health status in adults with intellectual disabilities: Results of the European POMONA II study’ was recently published in the Journal of Intellectual & Developmental Disability (JIDD) as is awarded ‘the most outstanding contribution among all papers published in JIDD throughout 2011. The paper presents findings from a European Commission DG Sanco project that developed a set of health indicators for individuals with intellectual disabilities throughout Europe. This success follows from a similar endorsement in August 2011 when another paper from this research, published in the Journal of Intellectual Disability Research, received the Francisco Garces Roca award from the Spanish Society for the Provision of Socio-health Care. ‘The P15 - a multinational assessment battery for collecting data on health indicators relevant to adults with intellectual disabilities’ outlines the development of the health indicator suite and its potential to highlight health disparities experienced by people with intellectual disabilities in Europe. Colleagues from the POMONA project will continue their dissemination strategies into 2012.
International Day of Persons with Disabilities
6 December 2011
From left to right: Patricia Bray, Dr Suzanne Guerin, Anna Lawson, Associate Prof Christine Linehan, Eithne Fitzgerald, Martin Naughton, Prof Patricia Noonan Walsh, Prof Gerard Quinn
A celebration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities was hosted at the Long Room Hub, Trinity College Dublin on Friday 2nd December. The event was co-hosted by all four disability centres throughout Ireland: the National Institute for Intellectual Disability at Trinity College Dublin; the Centre for Disability Studies at University College Dublin; the Centre for Disability Law and Policy at NUI Galway; and the Centre for Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities at the University of Ulster. This is the first such event where all four university centres have collaborated.
Martin Naughton, Áiseanna Tacaíochta and Co-Executive Director of the European Network of Independent Living chaired the proceedings.
Guest speakers included Anna Lawson, School of Law, University of Leeds who presented on 'The Ivory Tower and the Real World: Academia and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities'. Anna's presentation was followed by Professor Patricia Noonan Walsh, Professor Emerita of Disability Studies, University College Dublin who spoke on 'A Career in Disability Research'. Eithne Fitzgerald, Head of Policy and Public Affairs, National Disability Authority outlined a pathway for 'Translating Research into Policy'. Finally, Professor Gerard Quinn, Director the Centre of Disability Law and Policy, NUI Galway brought the proceedings to a close with a proposal for the establishment of a Disability Studies Association of Ireland. The idea was very well received by guests and a series of events to progress this idea in 2012 is underway.
Click here for pdf slides from Professor Patricia Noonan Walsh, University College Dublin who spoke on 'A Career in Disability Research'.
Click here for pdf slides from Anna Lawson, School of Law, University of Leeds who presented on 'The Ivory Tower and the Real World: Academia and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities'.
Click here for pdf slides from Eithne Fitzgerald, Head of Policy and Public Affairs, National Disability Authority who outlined a pathway for 'Translating Research into Policy'
Click here for the proposal document outlined by Professor Gerard Quinn on options to establish a Disability Studies Association of Ireland. This document was prepared by the Centre for Disability Law and Policy at NUI Galway. A follow up meeting will be hosted by the Centre for Disability Studies, University College Dublin on March 12th. Enquiries may be made to Niamh Heynen.
Enquiries regarding the day can be emailed to Niamh Heynen
QUART Centre Conference
5 December 2011
Carline Thompson, an M.Sc. in Disability Studies graduate, presented at the QUART Centre Conference www.qub.ac.uk/quart at Queen’s University Belfast on 18th November 2011. Carline’s presentation “The coping strategies and mechanisms of ethnic minority parents living in Ireland who have children with disabilities” was based on her M.Sc. dissertation work supervised by Dr. Paula Mayock. For more information on the presentation, please contact Carline Thompson at thopmscs@tcd.ie.
M.Sc. in Disability Studies Seminar Series
17 November 2011
Prof. Errol Cocks, Director of the Centre for Research into Disability and Society (CRDS) at Curtin University in Western Australia, gave a public lecture on Individualised Supported Living (ISL) for people with disabilities in Australia as part of the seminar series of the M.Sc. in Disability Studies. The lecture focused on Australian policies and practices that have contributed to the development of ISL for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Western Australia, based on person-centred principles and individualised funding. An ongoing research project that has developed an instrument for evaluating the quality of ISL arrangements was described. Click here for a pdf of the presentation.
For more information about the presentation, please email E.Cocks@curtin.edu.au.
Prof. Errol Cocks is a visiting scholar at the NIID with an international career and scholarship in education and research in the field of Disability Studies. For more information about Prof. Errol Cocks, please see his CV or the link to the CRDS.
NIID Summer School 2012
16 November 2011
The NIID Summer School 2012 has been selected for inclusion in the prestigious Dublin City of Science 2012 Public Engagement Programme. Dublin City of Science 2012 will be a year long programme of events that will highlight the role and value of science in society. The NIID Summer School, first held in 2009, addresses the inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities in society. The NIID Summer School 2012 aims to engage the general public and members of the disability community in this important social science issue. The full programme for the NIID Summer School 2012 will be available on the NIID website in the New Year.
Work in Progress Conference Slovenia November 2011
16 November 2011
M.Sc. in Disability Studies graduate and lecturer, Amy O'Connor and Dr. Fintan Sheerin, participated in the Work in Progress Conference in Jesenice, College of Nursing Jesenice, Slovenia on the 10th and 11th of November, 2011.
Amy O’Connor presented her dissertation work “Service cutbacks and quality of life: perspectives of people with mild intellectual disabilities”. Amy said that presenting at Works in Progress was a great experience. She really enjoyed it and got great feedback from peers and other academics. For more information on this presentation, please contact Amy O’Connor at oconnoa4@tcd.ie.
Dr. Fintan Sheerin from the School of Nursing and Midwifery in Trinity College gave an introductory lecture on Health Professions and Social Action.
For more information on this presentation, please contact Dr. Fintan Sheerin at sheerinf@tcd.ie.
Works in Progress is an international seminar for master students in the caring professions. Dr. Fintan Sheerin, Lecturer in the M.Sc. in Disability Studies is a partner and founding member of the Works in Progress, an Erasmus intensive programme. This programme aims at linking students and faculties across disciplines and borders to promote common visions for developing and advancing knowledge in nursing and allied professions. The Works in Progress partners include Instituto Politecnico de Leiria, School of Health Sciences, Portugal, Oslo University College, Norway, College of Nursing Jesenice, Slovenia, and School of Nursing and Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland. For more information on the Works in Progress please contact Fintan Sheerin at sheerinf@tcd.ie.
Certificate in Contemporary Living 2011 Graduation
11 November 2011
Students of the pioneering university course for people with intellectual disability graduated at a ceremony in Trinity College Dublin’s Public Theatre today (November 10th). Twenty students were awarded with Certificates in Contemporary Living when they formally graduated at the ceremony.
The two-year Certificate in Contemporary Living course run by Trinity’s National Institute for Intellectual Disability (NIID), is the first full-time course of its kind in the university sector in Ireland. Based on its model, other courses are now being taught in a number of third level institutions both nationally and internationally.
The twenty students who successfully completed the certificate in summer 2011 is the fourth cohort to graduate from the programme.
John Power, Niamh Fortune and Tomas Murphy celebrate after graduating with a Certificate in Contemporary Living from Trinity College Dublin
One of the key aims of the NIID Certificate in Contemporary Living course is to promote lifelong learning for people with intellectual disabilities and to ensure that this third level education leads to appropriate employment opportunities.
Commenting on the significance of their achievement, NIID education officer, Molly O’Keeffe said: "Our graduates have overcome great challenges and struggles in their journey to achieve their goals. In achieving their ambitions, the students have also enabled the College and the wider community in developing a deeper understanding of the strengths and abilities of people with intellectual disabilities. In supporting the roll-out of the Certificate in Contemporary Living programme amongst other third level institutions it also ensures educational opportunities across the country for this marginalised group.”
“Over the last two years, the graduate students have made enormous strides in their personal, social and learning development and made a wonderful contribution to campus life. Since finishing the course the students have successfully gained part-time employment, some have gone on to further their education in colleges and VECs around Dublin and others again are concentrating on moving out of home towards supported independent living in the community.”
Inaugural Award of the Margaret McLoughlin Prize for Achievement in Art presented to CCL graduate John Power
11 November 2011
Tony and Joan McLoughlin, John Power and John Kubiak. Presentation of award to John Power at The Long Room Hub, Trinity College
This year the graduation included the inaugural award of the Margaret McLoughlin Art Prize for achievement in art by a student of the Certificate course. The prize was established in NIID by a generous gift from the McLoughlin family and friends and was presented to NIID graduate, John Power, by Joan McLoughlin at a special reception preceding the graduation ceremony.
There are three aspects to the Certificate in Contemporary Living – academic learning, personal growth and career development. On the course students complete modules in English and spoken communication, mathematics and financial management, social studies, international awareness and music among other areas.
About the National Institute for Intellectual Disability (NIID)
The National Institute for Intellectual Disability (NIID) was established at Trinity College to promote the inclusion of people with intellectual disability and their families. The Institute works to ensure that the basic human rights of people are upheld associated with access to: Appropriate education; Health Services; Employment; Housing and social amenities; Community presence and participation.
The NIID promotes lifelong learning for people with intellectual disability through: The Certificate in Contemporary Living, an inclusive education programme involving Trinity staff and Trinity students undertaking professional degrees; Development and implementation of inclusive research practice; Analysis and commentary on relevant legislation and policy; Parent/family education; Consultancy and partnership with service and advocacy agencies.
Celebrating the International Day of Persons with Disabilities
11 November 2011
The National Institute for Intellectual Disability, in conjunction with the Centre for Disability, Law and Policy NUIG, the Centre for Disability Studies UCD and the Centre for Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities at the University of Ulster are pleased to invite you to: ‘Celebrating the International Day of Persons with Disabilities’. This half day event will be hosted at the Long Room Hub at Trinity College Dublin on Friday 2nd December 2011 from 2pm-5pm.
The event will explore the intersection between academia, research and disability studies. Dr Anna Lawson, University of Leeds will deliver a Keynote Address on ‘The Ivory Tower and the Real World’. A discussion will follow including contributions on a Career in Disability by Professor Patricia Noonan Walsh, Professor Emerita, University College Dublin; Translating Research into Policy by Eithne Fitzgerald, Head of Policy and Public Affairs, National Disability Authority; and a proposal by Professor Gerard Quinn, Centre for Disability, Law & Policy NUIG for the establishment of a Disability Studies Association of Ireland.
The National Institute for Intellectual Disability at Trinity College Dublin is delighted to host this event. While there is no charge to attend this event, registration is essential by contacting Marie.oconnor@ucd.ie or 01 7168333.
2011 State of the Art Conference, Washington DC - Post Secondary Education and Individuals with Intellectual disabilities
9 Nov, 2011
Tomas Murphy, CCL Graduate 2011 and Molly O’ Keeffe, Education Officer, NIID, travelled to America last week after they were invited to present at the 2011 State of the Art Conference on Post Secondary Education and Individuals with Intellectual disabilities. This is a yearly conference which is held at the George Mason University in Washington DC. As part of this trip, the pair were also invited to by the Young Leaders, Ireland Fund to present on the CCL Course in New York on their way to Washington.
On arriving in New York, Tomas and Molly spoke about the importance of third level education options for students with intellectual disabilities and the role of Trinity College as a leader in this area. Over thirty quests attended their presentation and these including members of the Ireland Funds and the Trinity Alumni. The pair then attended a concert in the Lincoln centre where the Irish Chamber Orchestra were performing on the night.
Tomas and Molly then travelled onto Washington DC, and presented an hour workshop entitled “Sharing a Model of Inclusive Third-Level Education in Ireland”. Their presentation highlighted strategies used for inclusion in Trinity College as well as the methods and materials used in the CCL course. It also discussed the change within Ireland around third level options for people with intellectual disabilities and how the NIID is currently supporting other third level institutions to set up courses.
Tomas was also invited to sit and present on a student panel which addressed “ What does “ Post Secondary Education for Students with Intellectual Disabilities’ mean to Me?”
This trip has allowed the creation of partnerships and connections with six other universities in the USA. Groups from the George Mason University, New Found Land, University of Delaware and University of Vermont are keen to visit the CCL course in early 2012. Other universities including Syracuse University are also keen to create a partnership around the work of the NIID in the area of Inclusive research.
“I found the trip very good fun, it was a great opportunity to go and speak about the CCL course in New York and Washington. I met great people throughout the week. It was extremely hard work and involved a lot of travelling, and working long days but it was really rewarding. I am was happy to be part of the team and I gained a lot of knowledge about other courses. “ Tomas Murphy.
Alumni Awards 2011
NIID would like to heartily Congratulate Hugo McNeill on receipt of his Alumni Award last Friday November 4th. The award was presented to Alumni in recognition of achievements in their respective fields and the contribution they have made in Ireland and internationally. Hugo is a very dedicated supporter of the work done in NIID. Further information on the event are available on the Communications Office page.
Epilepsy Expert Day
Christine Linehan, Director of the National Institute for Intellectual Disability presented an invited address at Ireland's 1st Epilepsy Expert Day. The conference, supported by UCB (Pharma) and the Irish Chapter of the International League Against Epilepsy was hosted at the Dublin Convention Centre. Christine’s presentation, entitled ‘Epidemiology of the Epilepsies’ outlined the contribution epidemiology has made to the field of epilepsy. Dr Linehan identified certain groups of the population as being at higher risk of developing epilepsy, such as children living in developing countries and people with intellectual disabilities. Dr Linehan noted the lack of research in the area of intellectual disability in particular and called for greater awareness on this issue.
Value for Money Review
The disability sector is currently the subject of a Value for Money and Policy Review as part of Government's Value for Money Reviews for the period 2009 to 2011. The aim is to ensure that money allocated to the disability sector is used to best purpose to provide quality outcomes for individuals with disabilities. As part of the review, an Expert Group was established to examine current policy in this field, and to make recommendations for the development of the sector. The Expert Group has published a report outlining their findings, and have recommended some significant changes in the configuration of disability services nationwide towards a model of individualised supports. The report, which is now open to public consultation can be found at this link
NIID's submission to this consultation can be found at this link
Law Reform Commission Annual Conference
The NIID is pleased to support the Law Reform Commission Annual Conference “Sexual Offences and Capacity” on Monday 7 November 2011. For more information, please read here”
M.Sc. in Disability Studies Public Lecture
The M.Sc. in Disability Studies is delighted to announce the next seminar in a series of events which will be delivered by Prof. Errol Cocks, Curtin University, Australia. The title is ‘Individual supported living for people with disabilities in Australia: Policies, practices, and quality'. The lecture takes place on Thursday Nov 17th , 5.00pm -7.00pm, NIID, 4th Floor, 3 College Green.
This presentation will give a snapshot of how supported living was provided for disabled people in Australia in the period of 2008-2009 when more than half of persons who received accommodation support funding lived in community settings other than institutional accommodation or group homes.
Prof. Cocks will explain how policies and practices around individual funding and person-centred principles have enabled a distinct movement of supported living options from institutional to smaller, individual supported living in Western Australia. At this presentation Prof. Cocks will describe a research project that began in 2007 in Western Australia to develop a framework and instrument for reviewing the quality of individual supported living (ISL) arrangements. For more information about Prof. Cocks’ research, please see http://otsw.curtin.edu.au/research/
Prof. Cocks is Director of the Centre for Research into Disability and Society, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, and Director, Research and Graduate Studies, School of Occupational Therapy and Social Work at Curtin University. Prof. Cocks has held a number of additional roles in non-government and advocacy organisations in disability and mental health in Australia and the UK. He has taught and developed undergraduate and postgraduate courses in social policy, human services, and disability studies in Australia, the UK, and the Middle East. For more information about Prof. Cocks, please see http://otsw.curtin.edu.au/about/ot_staff.cfm?id=5
This is a free event which is open to the Public. To register, please contact: Niamh Heynen, National Institute for Intellectual Disability, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2 by Monday 14th Nov. Tel: +353-1-8968597, email: niamh.heynen@tcd.ie.
The National Institute for Intellectual Disability, M.Sc. in Disability Studies, Centre for Deaf Studies and the School of Social Work and Social Policy are pleased to welcome Professor Nora Groce, The Leonard Cheshire Chair and Director of the Leonard Cheshire Disability and Inclusive Development Centre, University College London, who will present a public lecturer entitled: ‘Why Disability and Deaf Studies Matter: Translating Research into Policy and Practice' on Thursday, 6 October 2011.
A medical anthropologist, Prof. Groce’s applied research has concentrated on the inclusion of persons with disability in global health and international development. Her work on deafness includes her 1984 book ‘Everyone Here Spoke Sign Language: Hereditary Deafness on Martha’s Vineyard’ one of the earlier ethnographies on deafness in the community. Dr. Groce is a regular consultant for UN agencies, NGO's and DPO's. She has published extensively.
Seminar Outline
With the ratification of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities there is a growing interest in and commitment to ensuring that persons with disabilities are included in major initiatives in human rights, international health and development. Drawing on examples from both developed and low and middle-income countries, Professor Groce will discuss how the emerging body of research around disability and the Deaf community is being used to make changes to current policy and practice - and will also discuss where gaps in these field still exist that must be addressed by the next generation of scholars.
Date: Thursday, 6 October 2011
Venue: Long Room Hub, Trinity College
Time: 5.00pm - 7.00pm
To register, please contact: Niamh Heynen, National Institute for Intellectual Disability, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2 by Monday 3rd October.
tel: +353-1-8968597, email: niamh.heynen@tcd.ie.
New Mental Capacity Bill
The Government is expected to publish the new Mental Capacity Bill in late 2011. When the Bill is published, Ireland will move to ratify the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Before publishing the Bill, the Oireachtas’ Joint Committee on Justice, Defence and Equality asked for written submissions from interested groups for their views on the proposed Mental Capacity Legislation. NIID’s submission to the Oireachtas can be found at this link New Mental Capacity Bill
Research Assistant at the NIID awarded Doctoral Scholarship at University of Iceland
Ciara Brennan, Research Assistant at the National Institute for Intellectual Disability, has been awarded a doctoral scholarship at the University of Iceland, Reykjavik. Ciara writes ‘This September I bid farewell to the NIID to take up a 3 year position at the Centre for Disability Studies at the University of Iceland, Reykjavik.
The position is part of a European research network of Marie Curie fellows entitled “Disability Rights Expanding Accessible Markets” (DREAM). The DREAM network will develop recommendations for the practical implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. My focus will be on the right to independent living as outlined in Article 19 of the Convention.
I would like to thank everybody at the NIID for their support and encouragement. I could not have dreamt of better mentorship and experience. A personal highlight is the way in which people with intellectual disabilities share their expertise with the research team. It is with great excitement that I embark on this new path, but sadness that I leave behind fond memories of my time here'.
National Institute for Intellectual Disability and School of Social Work and Social Policy welcome new colleague, Professor Errol Cocks
The National Institute for Intellectual Disability (NIID) and School of Social Work and Social Policy are pleased to welcome Professor Errol Cocks BA (Uni. of WA) MPsych (UWA) PhD (Uni. of Queensland), Visiting Professor, for the period September to December 2011. Professor Cocks is the Director, Centre for Research into Disability and Society (CRDS), Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute and Director, Research and Graduate Studies, School of Occupational Therapy and Social Work, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia.
During his visit to the National Insitute for Intellectual Disabilty (NIID), Professor Cocks will be working with the course teams for the Certificate in Contemporary Living (CCL) and the M.Sc. in Disability Studies in addition to other research activities in the Institute.
Brainwave's Online European Survey
6 Aug, 2011
Brainwave, the Irish Epilepsy Association and Cardiff University are conducting an online European Survey on the experiences of those who provide support to people with intellectual disabilities who have epilepsy. This online survey will explore issues around medication, access to appropriate clinical supports and the impact of epilepsy on quality of life. This research has been approved by the Research Ethics Committee at Cardiff University and participants should be aware that all responses are anonymous and untraceable. The information gleaned from this survey will provide valuable information to Brainwave, the Irish Epilepsy Association on future service need in this area. The survey will remain open to Irish participants to December 2011. If you wish to participate in the study please click on the link below for further information. Please note you will be directed to a website external to NIID http://www.epilepsy.ie/index.cfm/spKey/news.brainwave/spId/94AB52B2-CE62-63F3-4454F2DE0FFD153C.html
NDA Research Study
12 Aug, 2011
The National Institute for Intellectual Disability (NIID), in conjunction with the National Anti-Bullying Advocacy Group, has recently secured a “Research Promotions Grant” from the National Disability Authority, the statutory advisory body to Government on disability issues.
The grant has been awarded for an inclusive research project to explore the issue of bullying of people with intellectual disabilities. A series of focus groups will be undertaken with key stakeholders including people with intellectual disabilities, family members and carers, disability services’ support staff, community representatives, health and social care professionals, and policy makers in this area.
The research will culminate in the production of an Easy-to-Read Guide on bullying for people with intellectual disabilities. This research will be carried out by researchers at the NIID in conjunction with researchers from the National Anti-Bullying Advocacy Group, an active group of advocates with intellectual disabilities who provide training and advocacy in the area of bullying.
Fiona Weldon, Development Worker with the National Anti-Bullying Advocacy Group is Research Coordinator. The research team comprises Conn O’Rathaille, William (Bill) Roberts, and Marie Wolfe from the National Anti-Bullying Advocacy Group and Ciara Brennan, Emer O’Malley and Siobháin O’Doherty from NIID. Dr Christine Linehan, Director of NIID is Principal Investigator.
New Director Announced
19 July, 2011
The National Institute for Intellectual Disability are delighted to announce the appointment of Christine Linehan, BA, MA, Dip.Stat, PhD, Reg.Psych.PsSI, as our new Director.
Dr Linehan is a research psychologist by profession with qualifications in psychology and statistics from University College Dublin and Trinity College Dublin. Her extensive experience in the disability field ranges from having worked for St. Michael's House, a provider organisation for people with intellectual disabilities in Dublin; the Centre for Disability Studies based at University College Dublin; to more recently for the National Disability Authority, the statutory advisory body to Government on disability issues. Dr Linehan has been involved in a number of international research initiatives and has published widely in leading disability peer-reviewed journals. Her most recent work has focused on the potential reconfiguration of disability services, most specifically towards the introduction of personal budgets and individualised supports for people with disabilities in Ireland.
New Head of School of Social Work and Social Policy: Dr Eoin O'Sullivan
Dr Eoin O'Sullivan has been elected Head of School of Social Work and Social Policy. Dr O'Sullivan takes over from Professor Robbie Gilligan who completed his second term of office in July 2011. The Headship has a term of three years, during which the Head of School is responsible for the effective general management of the School, for ensuring the provision of academic leadership and strategic vision, and for the quality of the student experience.
Dr Eoin O'Sullivan is a Senior Lecturer in Social Policy, specialising in criminology, and was the School's former Director of Teaching and Learning (Postgraduate). Dr O'Sullivan is also a ministerial appointee to the Private Residential Tenancies Board. The National Institute for Intellectual Disabilities wishes Dr O'Sullivan every success during his term of office.
End of Term Celebrations
9 June, 2011
NIID students and staff celebrated the end of term last Thursday. The event was a huge sucess with 1st year students looking forward to their summer holidays and the 2nd year group excited about the opportunities that await them following their successful completion of the Certificate.
As well as staff, students, family members and supporters the event was attended by some of our Business Partners and Work Placement sponsors. Starbucks very kindly sponsored the event.
Nordic Network on Disability Research Conference
3 June, 2011
National Institute for Intellectual Disability (NIID) Staff and Students participate in 11th Nordic Network on Disability Research (NNDR), Reykjavik
Two NIID staff, Dr Edurne Iriarte Garcia, Lecturer in Intellectual Disability and Course Co-ordinator, M.Sc. in Disability Studies, and Ms Niamh Lally, Research Assistant (and Ph.D. Student), and one Certificate in Contemporary Living Student, Mr Tomas Murphy, presented papers and posters at the 11th Nordic Network on Disability Research (NNDR) conference in Reykjavik from 25-27 May 2011. At the conference, disability studies research and theory and the UN Convention on Rights of Persons with Disability were discussed by scholars, activists, advocates and practitioners representing more than 28 countries.
Dr Edurne Garcia presented the paper:
“What have we learned from conducting research with people with intellectual disabilities?” by Edurne Garcia Iriarte, Patricia O’Brien, and Darren Chadwick.
Ms Niamh Lally and Mr Tomas Murphy presented a paper entitled “Promoting University inclusion for people with I.D. throughout Ireland - How we did it” by Niamh Lally, Mai Lin Yap, Tomas Murphy, Molly O’Keeffe and Patricia O’Brien.
On behalf of colleagues unable to attend, they also presented a paper entitled: “Our experience of attending undergraduate lectures at Trinity College - Student Perspectives” by John Kubiak, Patricia O’Brien, Molly O’Keeffe and Barry O’Connor.
Posters by Ms Zoe Hughes, Ph.D. student, and Ms Siobhain O’Doherty, Research Assistant, were also presented:
“The right of people with intellectual disabilities to have intimate relationships - Care staff perspectives in Ireland” by Siobhain O’Doherty
“The impact of life story telling for storytellers with intellectual disabilities, their support and service agencies” by Zoe Hughes.
Please contact the authors of the papers for further information.
Please click here to read an account of Tomas's visit to Iceland.
Presidential Visit
Owing to the much anticipated visit of the President of the United States, Barack Obama to College Green, the NIID offices will not be accessible on Monday May 23rd. Should you have an urgent query please email Niamh Heynen niamh.heynen@tcd.ie
We will open for business and classes as normal on Tuesday. We apologise for any inconvenience caused by this closure.
The Royal Visit
Congratulations to Niamh Fortune (2nd year CCL student) who along with Education Officer Molly O'Keeffe met Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II this afternoon in the Long Room during her visit to Trinity College. Well done Niamh and Molly for representing us so well! Footage of the visit is available on the RTE player site.
Research News
Genio Contract
Congratulations to Dr Edurne Iriarte Garcia, Lecturer in Intellectual Disability, who is part of a team that was successfully awarded a contract by Genio Trust with support from Atlantic Philanthropies to conduct a 2-year evaluation study on the individualised, cost-effective supports and services that Genio is grant-aiding in Ireland.
The Team is led by principal investigator Professor Roy McConkey, Ulster University, and includes Dr Bunting Brendan, Ulster University, Dr Edurne Garcia Iriarte, Trinity College Dublin, Ms Rachel Stevens, Empower All, and Ms Marie Wolfe, Empower All.
The evaluation aims to gather evidence to inform the transition from traditional group-based models to individualised, cost-effective supports and services, and to accelerate the availability of such services and supports. The sample for the study includes people with intellectual and physical disabilities and those with mental health problems.
The Genio Trust had a grant-making programme in mid-2010. Grants were awarded to successful proposals in two areas: direct service provision to support individuals to live as included members of the community (17 initiatives received grants to support over 100 individuals); and capacity building initiatives promoting individualised supports and services and community inclusion (33 capacity building initiatives received grants).
CCL Open Day, Friday 27th May 2011
5 May, 2011
The Certificate in Contemporary Living open day will be held on Monday 27th May 2011 at The National Institute for Intellectual Disability (NIID), 4th Floor, 3 College Green. Please see here for location of venue on Dame Street. Download CCL Application Form.Closing date for application 7th June. Interviews will be held on 20th June. For further information contact Ailish Kennedy.
Berlin 2011 - Certificate in Contemporary Living
May 3, 2011
As part of this module we organised a field trip away to a European country. This year the group picked Germany. In class we have compared Ireland and Germany in the following areas: history, culture, geography, society and politics. We have looked at maps, rivers, forests as well as learning important insights into the traumatic history of both countries. Through group discussion we have explored World War Two, the 1916 Rising and the Irish Famine. We planned to visit the Berlin Wall, Brandenburg gate, and Checkpoint Charlie amongst others. We have also planned cultural activities in the evening like eating German food, listening to music, meeting German people and sampling their beer.” 2nd Year CCL Students
Graduation 2010 - Certificate in Contemporary Living
Nov 11, 2010
Students of the pioneering university course for people with intellectual disability graduated at a ceremony in the Public Theatre, Trinity College Dublin on Thursday, November 11th last. Thirteen students were awarded with Certificates in Contemporary Living when they formally graduated at the ceremony. They are the third cohort to graduate from the programme.
Commenting on the significance of their achievement, NIID Education Officer, Molly O’Keeffe said: "Our graduates have overcome great challenges and struggles in their journey to achieve their goals. In achieving their ambitions, the students have also enabled the college and the wider community in developing a deeper understanding of the strengths and abilities of people with intellectual disabilities. In supporting the roll-out of the Certificate in Contemporary Living programme amongst other third level institutions it also ensures educational opportunities across the country for this marginalised group.”
"Over the last two years, the graduate students have made enormous strides in their personal, social and learning development and made a wonderful contribution to campus life. Since finishing the course the students have successfully gained part-time employment, some have gone on to further their education in colleges and VECs around Dublin and others again are concentrating on moving out of home towards supported independent living in the community."
The two-year Certificate in Contemporary Living course run by TCD’s National Institute for Intellectual Disability (NIID), is the first full-time course of its kind in the university sector in Ireland. Based on its model, other courses are now being taught in a number of third level institutions nationwide.
One of the key aims of the NIID Certificate in Contemporary Living course is to promote lifelong learning for people with intellectual disabilities and to ensure that this third level education leads to appropriate employment opportunities.
There are three aspects to the Certificate in Contemporary Living – academic learning, personal growth and career development. On the course students complete modules in English and spoken communication, mathematics and financial management, social studies, international awareness and music among other areas.
About the National Institute for Intellectual Disability (NIID)
The National Institute for Intellectual Disability (NIID) was established at Trinity College to promote the inclusion of people with intellectual disability and their families. The Institute works to ensure that the basic human rights of people are upheld associated with access to:
Appropriate education;
Health Services;
Employment;
Housing and social amenities;
Community presence and participation.
The NIID promotes lifelong learning for people with intellectual disability through:
The Certificate in Contemporary Living, an inclusive education programme involving Trinity staff and Trinity students undertaking professional degrees;
Development and implementation of inclusive research practice;
Analysis and commentary on relevant legislation and policy;
Parent/family education;
Consultancy and partnership with service and advocacy agencies;
Public Education.
NIID’s development to date has been made possible through the support and funding of the following: The Atlantic Philanthropies, The Ireland Funds, Joe Corcoran, The Kathleen Rooney Miller Fund, Special Olympics Ireland, Denis O’Brien and Thomas Crosbie Holdings.
NIID gratefully acknowledges this support and also funding received from: the Department of Education and Science, Higher Education Authority, European Commission Marie Curie Fellowships, National Disability Authority, National Council for Special Education and The Fulbright Commission and NIID Business Partners Network.
NIID 'All we Want To Say' project launches DVD and executive summary
On Monday, 14th December 2009, the co-researchers and supporters who have been working on the 'All We Want to Say' project launched their findings in 2 formats: A DVD produced with the help of DCTV, and in the form of an accessible summary.
Members of the 'All We Want to Say' project presenting at the DVD & executive summary launch
The executive summary report is available for download by clicking here.
Members of the Inclusive Research Network present at the National Disability Authority National Conference
Marie Wolfe, Simon Buggy and Sara Flynn presented the findings of the Where We Live project at the National Disability Authority Annual conference at Croke Park on Tuesday 6th October. The three presenters represented the work of the Inclusive Research Network and the 11 co-researchers who conducted this study.
The presentation and some photos can also be viewed at the website of the National Federation of Voluntary Bodies. Click here to go to the website.
You can also access the full presentation by clicking on this link.
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Marie Woolfe, Sarah Flynn and Simon Buggy presenting at the NDA National Conference, 2009.
NIID Summer School Report
Posted 10th August, 2009
Full Report on NIID Summer School 2009
NIID Summer School photographs
Posted 7th August, 2009
The following links will take you to online photogalleries from the NIID Summer School that took place from 27th-29th July, 2009.
Day one: Click here
Day two: Click here
Lifestories archive launch: Click here
Day three: Click here
NIID launch 'A Story to Tell' lifestory archive
Posted on 31st July, 2009
The NIID officially launched the 'A Story to Tell' archive of lifestories at an event during the inaugural Summer School on Tuesday, 28th July, 2009.
The event was well attended by a large group of interested people with disabilties, academics, frontline staff and invited guests. For more information, click here.
For older news stories, please see our news archive, accessible by clicking this link.