EPI*STEM has achieved national recognition for research impact arising from our delivery of the Professional Diploma in Mathematics for Teachers (PDMT). The Higher Education Authority has announced the award of €350,000 in performance funding to EPI*STEM, based on a review of Research Impact Assessment Case Studies submitted by all higher education institutions in Ireland. UL submitted two case studies, with 39 submitted nationally. Only 16 were recommended for performance funding from the HEA, including EPI*STEM’s for the PDMT – the only UL case study to be funded (see https://hea.ie/assets/uploads/2017/04/Performance-Funding-Allocations-2019.pdf for more details).
The funding will be used over the next two years to support the continuation of EPI*STEM, building on the Centre’s wealth of expertise and experience in upskilling mathematics teachers via the PDMT. This knowledge will be applied in new ways to upskill teachers: (1) by adapting existing PDMT materials to produce a high quality online CPD programme focusing on mathematical knowledge for teaching; and (2) by developing a new programme aimed at Junior Cycle Science teachers with a focus on Physics. The project also contributes to creating a sustainable future for EPI*STEM, ensuring that the Centre is resourced to address current and emerging priorities