News Release Page Title

20 November 2006

EAGLE EMBRACES EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING AND LEARNING

Minister for Employment and Learning, Maria Eagle MP, hosted a reception today in recognition of the Centres of Excellence in Teaching and Learning Initiative (Northern Ireland).

The Minister welcomed representatives from all the Higher Education Institutions in Northern Ireland taking part in the initiative, which is funded by the Department for Employment and Learning.

Outlining the impact of the initiative to date, the Minister said:

"The Centres of Excellence initiative has reached out, both nationally and internationally, beyond the local Higher Education Sector, across education, business and the community, enhancing the influence and reputation of teaching and learning in Northern Ireland."

Recognising the valued contribution the Centres of Excellence initiative has made to the Northern Ireland Education Sector, the Minister continued:

"When the significance of education in our society has never been greater, what could be more necessary that encouraging and rewarding excellence.

"It is through such initiatives, that we bring about real change that produces real benefits, for staff and students alike."

The Minister paid tribute to the Higher Education Academy for their invaluable support to the Northern Ireland Institutions and congratulated each of the seven centres on the numerous successes and innovations since their inception.

NOTES TO EDITORS:

1. The initiative originally built upon the model provided by the Centres for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETLs), which were established under a programme developed by the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE). The CETLs(NI) initiative also complements previous investments in learning and teaching which have been facilitated through the Teaching Quality Enhancement Fund (TQEF).

2. Queen's University currently has three operational Centres for Excellence entitled:

  • The Centre for Excellence in Interprofessional Education (IPE): Curriculum and Assessment Development;

  • The Centre for Excellence in the Creative and Performing Arts; and

  • The Centre for Excellence in Active and Interactive Learning.

3. The University of Ulster currently has two operational Centres entitled:

  • Centre for Excellence in Multimedia Language Learning; and

  • The Centre for the Utilisation of Institutional E-Learning Services to enhance the Learning Experience.

4. St Mary's University College has one operational Centre entitled:

  • Centre for Excellence in Critical Thinking and Analytical Writing.

5. Stranmillis University College has one operational Centre entitled:

  • Centre for Excellence in Critical Professional Development.

6. Media queries to the Department for Employment and Learning Press Office on 028 9025 7872.

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