DCU Institute of Education launched a new Centre for Literacy Research, Policy and Practice at an event on DCU St Patrick’s Campus on Tuesday, 19 November. The event was attended by educators, policy-makers, researchers and authors, who heard from expert speakers and panellists in the field of literacy.
This innovative Centre was established to shape and inform literacy research, policy and practice both nationally and internationally, and will bring together researchers and educators with expertise in literacy and related disciplines across early childhood education, primary, post-primary, further education and adult education.
At the launch event, attendees were welcomed by Professor Anne Looney, Dean of the DCU Institute of Education, who noted the progress made in advancing literacy internationally, and emphasised the need for ongoing work in supporting the literacy development of marginalised communities.
Dr Eithne Kennedy, Director of the DCU Centre for Literacy Research, Policy and Practice provided a comprehensive overview of what researchers know and don’t yet know when it comes to literacy research. She singled out the need to funnel more attention into the achievement of students in DEIS schools, and called for a wide angle lens on the study of literacy.
A panel discussion led by Dr Conall Ó Breacháin explored personal encounters with literacy, the major trends in literacy research, emergent gaps in the evidence base and how the Centre can bring research, policy and practice into closer alignment. Panellists included DCU’s Dr Aideen Cassidy, Dr Patrick Burke and Dr Geraldine French; Yvonne McKenna, Director of Adult Literacy for Life, Solas; Prof Kathy Hall, UCC and Prof Kjersti Lundetræ, Director of the Norwegian Reading Centre, University of Stavanger.
Speaking at the launch, Centre Director Dr Eithne Kennedy said:
“In line with current research, our Centre embraces an inclusive and broad vision of literacy that attends to the cognitive, affective, aesthetic and cultural dimensions and the transfer of literacy skills across languages, recognising that such a vision is fundamental to enabling individuals to discover and reach their potential in life.
Harnessing our collective expertise, a key focus of the Centre will be to address gaps in research, to promote equity in literacy outcomes and to support educators to bring research and practice into open dialogue in ways that inspire and support them to motivate and engage learners across the life span and in creating research-informed responsive and inclusive literacy pedagogies.”
The work of the Centre will advance a broad vision of literacy, cultivate a love of reading and writing, embrace critical, digital and media literacies, support educators, and promote equity in literacy outcomes for all children. We are currently seeking the support of philanthropic partners to advance this vital research. If you’re interested in learning more, please contact jennifer.hoey@dcu.ie.
