Inclusion and Special Educational Needs

Course Overview

In this micro-credential module, we will explore the historical context of inclusion and the impact of international developments on Irish legislation and policy. We will discuss the current debates and dilemmas within the inclusive and special education field and their implications for policy and practice. Finally, we will explore how inclusive pedagogy can be enacted in the classroom to meet the needs of all learners and approaches to the curriculum for learners with SEN in terms of an inclusive curriculum.

Who should apply?

This micro-credential module is designed for teachers, school leaders, early years educators, SNAs, and other professionals who work with learners with special education needs.

What you can expect? 

This micro-credential module will enable student to:

1. Use their knowledge of the core issues, background and history of inclusive and special education to inform their study, discussions and practice
2. Demonstrate their understanding of the concepts of inclusion and current debates on the issue by stating their considered personal perspectives
3. Discuss the key principles of inclusive education and the factors associated with the successful practice of inclusion
4. State the rationale for early intervention and the factors which determine its efficacy
5. Apply their knowledge of the principles of assessment when administering diagnostic assessments to their learners
6. Promote, develop and foster collaborative partnerships with all those working with their learners
7. Use a variety of teaching and learning strategies, structure appropriate learning contexts and select resources, adapting where necessary, to suit the individual needs of learners they teach
8. Plan and teach programmes in the specified curricular areas which are suited to the interests, strengths and areas for development of their learners
9. Examine the influence of context on definitions of special need and on the nature and purpose of different models of curriculum
10. Critically analyse the issues in policy, curriculum planning and practice within special and inclusive education

Online Delivery
This micro-credential module is delivered fully online. It requires student engagement with self-directed learning and attendance at a small number of live online lectures, usually held from 6 pm-7:30 pm once a fortnight, on Wednesdays.

Entry Requirements
The application is open to qualified teachers at Primary and Post-primary levels, Special Needs Assistants (SNAs), and other non-teaching professionals who hold a recognised qualification, a Level 8 degree from an awarding institution in Ireland or elsewhere, with experience working in an educational, training, or education-related professional context.

Candidates must submit the following:

• Certified academic transcripts for each and every year of study.

If applicable, evidence of competence in the English language as per DCU entry requirements.

There is no availability for a deferred entry onto a micro-credential. The University does not refund application or registration fees for professional development course

How to apply
For information on how to apply for this micro-credential, please read this Guide for Applicant.

To apply, please follow these steps:

• Check if you are eligible to apply
• Register for a new HEA Springboard account, or log in to an existing HEA account
• Once logged in, search for this course and choose the option 'Apply Now'

Closing date for applications: 31^st July 2026