How did you get started as an E-Learning Teaching Enhancement Officer for Rehab?
I began my journey with National Learning Network five years ago as a training instructor, where I worked with diverse cohorts of individuals, including the Skills 4 Life course and then I was tasked with setting up and instructing on the Skills Bridge centre in Mullingar.
Transitioning to the role of an E-Learning Teaching Enhancement Officer was a natural progression driven by my passion for technology and a desire to innovate within the education sector. After seizing an opportunity to join the fantastic E-Learning team, I was appointed to this role in February 2023.
Why did you choose to work with National Learning Network?
National Learning Network provided me with a platform to merge my passion for technology with my commitment to facilitating learning opportunities. The organisation’s ethos of inclusivity and its dedication to empowering individuals resonated with me deeply.
What are you working on at present?
Currently, as an E-Learning Teaching Enhancement Officer my role is to provide instructors with pedagogic and technical support, training resources to encourage the adoption of technology-enhanced learning best practices in the classroom and research and advise on E-Learning technologies and trends, to support Rehab Group’s priority of delivering a first-class student experience.
What is the best part of your job?
The most rewarding part of my role is witnessing the tangible impact of technology-enhanced learning on students’ educational journeys. Seeing students succeed because of the skills and tools I impart is incredibly fulfilling.
What is a defining career moment or high point?
One of the most significant milestones was developing the Dream to Drive project. This project uses driving simulators to teach students the basics of driving and road safety awareness. It was all thanks to National Learning Networks and in particular our Director of Learning Lucianne Bird for their innovative approach to education that allowed me to develop this project. I presented the Dream to Drive project at the prestigious John Kelly awards in the University College Dublin last year which was a huge honour for me.
As an E-Learning Teaching Enhancement Officer, I thoroughly enjoy building a community of practice where staff come together to share their experiences of using technology in the classroom. A defining milestone in this role is difficult to pinpoint because every interaction, every breakthrough, and every collaborative endeavour contributes to the continuous growth of our educational ecosystem. However, if I were to highlight a particularly impactful moment, it would be witnessing the collaboration that emerges when staff unite under a common goal: to enhance student learning through technology. This collaborative approach is the key to integrating technology seamlessly into our educational practices.
Where do you see the education industry five years from now?
I believe the education industry will continue to undergo significant transformation, particularly with the inclusion of artificial intelligence and simulation. AI is set to revolutionise learning methodologies and personalise education on a scale never seen before and simulation is becoming one of the most positive learning tools that encourages experimentation and accepts mistakes, which is particularly important in the context of learning. The education sector is currently experiencing a defining moment in its history, and I am extremely excited to be part of that change.
What’s the best piece of professional advice you’ve received?
“Everyone you will ever meet knows something you don’t”.
If you could go back in time and give yourself a piece of advice at the start of your career, what would that be?
If I could turn back the clock and give a piece of advice to my younger self at the start of my career, it would be this: Follow your passion relentlessly.
In the initial stages of my journey, I had doubts about whether my passion for technology and education could be turned into a career. However, as time went on, I realised that aligning my professional pursuits with my genuine interests was not just a luxury but a necessity for long-term satisfaction and success.
Every day, I witness the impact that passion-driven work can have, not only on my own fulfilment but also on the lives of the staff and students of National Learning Network.
What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about interviewing for this position?
I would encourage candidates to highlight their passion for both education and technology during the interview process. Highlighting experiences that demonstrate innovation, adaptability, and a commitment to enhancing the learning experience will undoubtedly resonate with the interviewee.
What would you say are the key skills and capabilities necessary to be good at what you do?
Key skills as an E-Learning Teaching Enhancement Officer include strong technological proficiency, effective communication, adaptability to change, and a passion for continuous learning.
What is the best career lesson you have learned so far?
The most valuable lesson I have learned is to embrace change! Change is inevitable and it comes when we least expect. Our natural reaction is to dismiss things we do not understand, but learn to not stress over things you cannot control and concentrate on the things you can.
Which industry professionals should people be following on Twitter/LinkedIn?
I must recommend the National Learning Network’s LinkedIn and Twitter. I am an extremely small part of the amazing work carried out in the company and these sites are the best places to see that work.
Is there a particular book or resource you’d recommend to someone early in their career?
These are some exceptional channels on YouTube that I would highly recommend:
· @simplilearn
· @KevinStratvert
· @TedEds
· @MicrosoftEDU
I am currently reading “The Coming Wave” by Mustafi Suleyman. It is a fascinating book that I find hard to put down. Mustafi explores the potential and risks of artificial intelligence in society.
I also listen to podcasts daily, I would recommend:
· The EdTech Podcast
· Lex Fridman Podcast
· Microsoft Research Podcast
What’s your favourite place to holiday?
When the weather is good it’s hard to beat a trip to Kerry. I have travelled to many places in the world, but none come close to the beauty of this country. (When it’s not raining!)
What are you watching at the moment?
With the little free time I have, I play video games! Half-Life, Doom and Elden Ring are some of my favourites.
What’s your favourite meal?
Steak and chips. I also have a passion for lighting up the BBQ on a warm summer’s afternoon.
Rehab Group is an independent voluntary organisation providing services and support for people with disabilities for almost 75 years. At Rehab Group, we believe in fostering independence, dignity, and inclusion for all. That’s why we offer a diverse range of services tailored to each individual’s unique needs. From Care and Learning services spanning every county in Ireland to Employment opportunities in Ireland, Scotland, and Poland, we are committed to creating pathways to success for everyone in our community.
RehabCare, a cornerstone of our organisation, delivers innovative and responsive care that evolves alongside the ever-changing needs of our service users. Rehab’s Learning division is National Learning Network, a progressive leader in delivering personalised education, training, and development opportunities for people with disabilities or requiring additional support throughout Irish communities.
To find out more, visit www.rehab.ie/careers
