Coordinators: Dr. Ethna Regan, Gareth Byrne, Barri McEntee, Elaine McDonald, PJ Sexton – Mater Dei Institute of Education, Dublin (01-8376027)

Aim: To develop our understanding of the themes central to DE; to research how these themes emerge and are specifically addressed within Theology and RE; to clarify how Theology and RE contribute to a vision of Global and Social Justice; and to develop resources in the area.

Key Activities:

• Map where themes central to DE are currently addressed in MDI modules – Theology, Education and the Humanities.
• Organise and run Global and Social Justice Week. This will include staff DE session (inc MDGs), student DE session, presentations, insight into locally run Homework Club, speakers on Fair Trade etc, focus on making Mater Dei more eco-friendly (promote recycling and good practices).
• Review (by Masters Student) of existing material relating to Global and Social Justice in Theological and Religious Education literature, available from, for example, the Columban Missionaries at Dalgan Park, the Kimmage Missionary Institute, and relevant NGOs.
• Identify gaps in resources and opportunities for resource development and review possible models for the use of these resources in teacher education.