Deirdre O'Neill is a post-doctoral researcher in the School of Education in UL. Her research interests focus on transition in teacher education, physics teacher education and education outside the classroom. She is currently leading the monitoring and evaluation of the EU-funded OTTER project and implementation of the pilot studies in Ireland. The project investigates ways of embedding innovative pedagogical approaches to integrate sustainable development and make connections with the environment. She has also facilitated professional learning workshops for Department of Education and Skills (Professional Diploma in Teaching Physics and Professional Diploma in Maths for Teachers), Reginal Education Centers (e.g., AEC), schools (principals and teachers).
Deirdre's research interests also focuses on teachers (pre-service and in-service) and their role in empowering students to be the change agents of today. Her research gives voice to novice and experienced teachers by tailoring supports to their educational needs in the ever-changing landscape of education for sustainable development.
Deirdre's past involvement in research also considers unconscious bias, gender stereotyping, fostering professional learning communities and research practice partnerships.
