A framework to integrate ESD in the curriculum of teacher training institutions:
Curriculum, Sustainable Development, Competencies, Teacher Training (CSCT) Project

Research Presentation By Joanne O’Flaherty, arising from her representation of the Ubuntu Network at the ENSI conference, University of Leuven

A copy of her presentation is downloadable - please click here

Discussion centred on the following issues-

Competencies as concept are observable and measurable items.  Possible reductionist- to a specific set of skills or checklist in a prescriptive manner. A checklist does not allow for individuality and the focus can be entirely on one instructor. They also can be playing to the right-wing critiques of education

Assessment questions – DeSeCo report aims to develop process indicators, rather than product indicators based on often the tangible effects are assessed and easily measured. However the report exploring promotes the intangible effects as  these can have impact of learners.  The Bologna process emphasises learning outcomes across three domains- the affective, psychomotor and cognitive. The NCCA in its key skills work states that not all learning outcomes are assessable

Emotions and Values are key to DE/ESD, however they are noticeably not valued in knowledge economy discourse and economic recovery debate

On a positive note, the competencies can provide interpretative whole to modularised experience (link to portfolio as mode of assessment)

The ENSI framework is one of many competencies lists developed. However good teaching should include many of the competencies outlined, with ESD and citizenship issues. Question remains as to whether we are addressing these in our teacher education programmes, and developing effective and good educators

The Handbook of Competencies for ESD (Education for Sustainable Development) teachers - A framework to integrate ESD in the curriculum of teacher training institutes – is available for download from
http://www.unece.org/env/esd/inf.meeting.docs/EGonInd/8mtg/CSCT%20Handbook_Extract.pdf

Three interesting links to explore the issue of competency more
Alverno College – Liberal Teacher Education College, Wisconsin, US.  Provides a model of teacher education developed around eight competencies www.alverno.edu

Citizenship Education – have also developed a competency based approach.

Module in DCU -  Values, Identity and Intercultural Learning http://www.dcu.ie/registry/module_contents.php?function=2&subcode=ES310