University of Galway’s Máistir Gairmiúil san Oideachas programme has been recognised as an Apple Distinguished School.

The award identifies centres of excellence in the use of technology in education for the period 2024-2027.

University of Galway’s Máistir Gairmiúil san Oideachas was the first educational programme outside of the US to attain this recognition in 2015 and it has retained the status ever since.

Apple Distinguished Schools are centres of leadership and educational excellence that demonstrate Apple’s vision for learning with technology. Schools are selected based on their commitment to continuous innovation in education, to inspire, imagine, and impact teaching and learning.

            Professor Michal Molcho, Head of University of Galway’s School of Education, said: “The MGO programme is recognised internationallly for its pioneering work in the area of digital and mobile technology in teacher education and education more broadly.  This award affirms its position as a leader in this area of research and practice.”

An Máistir Gairmiúil san Oideachas at University of Galway is a two year, full-time, second level teacher education programme. Established in 1998, it is offered entirely through the medium of Irish and is the only programme of its kind in Ireland. The programme is recognised by the Teaching Council of Ireland for the purposes of registration as a post-primary teacher.

An Máistir Gairmiúil san Oideachas has the highest employment rate of any teacher education programme in Ireland, a recognition of the expertise of the graudtaes in using technology to embed best practice in innovative learning and teaching.

            Seán Ó Grádaigh, Director of the MGO programme at University of Galway, said: "Being part of the Apple Distinguished School community is immensely beneficial to An Máistir Gairmiúil san Oideachas. It has provided us with a platform to share best practices and learn from other institutions around the world. With technology constantly evolving, it is essential for educators to stay updated on new developments and advancements. We are currently exploring both the opportunities and challenges of AI in education, and the support from this community is invaluable in navigating these complexities.  Is mór linn go bhfuil an MGO roghnaithe mar Apple Distinguished School in athuair."

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