Over two days, fifty speakers gathered to share their innovative practice in pedagogical design, teaching collaboration and artistic research across our learning community.  From inclusive approaches to programme development, to critical discussions on emerging themes such as the use of AI in assessment design, the event highlighted the breadth and impact of research and teaching at IADT. 

In his opening remarks, President David Smith noted colleagues’ commitment to embedding equity of opportunity into our provision, affording our diverse community the means to flourish together and work for positive social and sustainable change.  Plenary speakers, Maureen Haran and Roisin Clarke, from ATU’s Centre of Excellence for Universal Design for Learning, shared their experience of implementing Inclusive Programmatic Review. Their work informs an IADT pilot launching this September to embed UDL across our curricula in line with our commitments under AHEAD’s Altitude Charter.  

The presentations, debates, and knowledge sharing over the two days of our annual TLR Showcase were hugely impressive and, most importantly, demonstrated the impact and opportunities within IADT – and with our partners – when we actively connect across disciplines and departments to build new collaborations that advance our teaching, learning, and research to the benefit of our students, staff and partners.

On this evidence, it is clear that, through our distinctive modes of teaching and academic delivery, IADT provides a uniquely supportive and progressive environment that is equally attentive to nurturing individual talents and to deepening the transversal skills required for graduate success. David Smith, IADT President.

Dr Sharon McGreevy, policy advisor to the HEA National Forum on a national Professional Recognition Framework, outlined the scaffolding required for academic careers to reward pedagogical excellence and professional development as student cohorts continue to diversify. Her presentation contributed a valuable sectoral perspective on the challenges facing HEIs as we prepare to meet the needs of Generation Alpha.  Dr Adrian Kirwan from Maynooth University (Critical Skills) demonstrated the scale of AI adoption in his presentation on student usage across faculties.   

Dr Andrew Power, IADT Registrar, awarded certificates to fifteen SATLE Teaching and Learning Fellows, funded for collaborative projects which successfully address these challenges through inclusive assessment design, and sustainable pedagogies for studio. 

Ably organised by the Academic Planning Office, Dr Selina Guinness (Head of Teaching and Learning) concluded by thanking participants for their expertise and insights, and acknowledging the HEA National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching for their continued funding and support. 

Special thanks are extended to Louisa Keogh, Lifelong Learning Officer, whose expert coordination ensured the smooth and successful delivery of this year’s event.

Photography courtesy of Seán Kelly.