Remote learning must be a permanent feature of higher and further education
Labour Senator, and Further and Higher Education spokesperson, Annie Hoey, has today (Friday, 18th February) said Minister for Further and Higher Education, Simon Harris must ensure that the successes and gains of remote learning are bedded down post pandemic.
Speaking in the Seanad this week, Senator Hoey said the benefits experienced by disabled students, parents and carers in accessing education remotely must be made a permanent feature of our education system into the future.
Senator Hoey said:
“Every section of our society has adapted and changed over the last two years. We believe that the gains made in terms of access to education cannot be allowed to fall by the wayside as people return back to the classroom or the lecture hall. Minister Harris must reflect on the positive impact brought to the system by flexible and remote learning. The pivot to online learning has provided opportunities to many people, like disabled students, parents and carers to return to and fully participate in education in a way that previously was not possible.”
She added: “While this may require additional funding for teaching roles, new technology and better facilities both on and off campus this should be no reason not to make it happen. Students all over the country are demanding the Minister steps up and outlines in detail what work he and his department are doing now to ensure all students have fair and equitable access to further and higher education across Ireland into the future.”