| "Minds, Machines & Maybes"
|
Prof. Mac MacLachlan |
2nd Oct 2024 |
Abstract:
This talk considers how we currently think about and respond to neurodiversity and mental health conditions. To what extent these are “things” with essence and to what extent do they reflect the imposition of human biases, categorisation, power positions and systems constraints? Does AI offer the possibility to know ourselves better than ever before? Can AI be more person-centred than people can? If so, how will this change our services, systems and self-perception in the future? |
| “Judging a Book by Its Cover: Why is it so Challenging to Portray Ageing on Academic Books?” |
Dr. Jamie Saris |
16th Oct 24 |
Abstract
Choosing a book cover for a large research project is a curious exercise. Generally, a publisher proposes some royalty-free artwork or stock photography, or, as often happens in ethnographies, a photograph from the field is chosen. There is sometimes a discussion about the marketing potential of the image and/or the stylistic feel of the series, but the process is generally not fraught. This wasn’t out experience with a recent book on ageing that developed out of the SHAPES project. As authors, we were universally unhappy with the stock photography on offer, and we found the cover art choice challenging, within the frame of the Book Series’ stylistic conventions. This paper is one of the authors’ reflections on this process and on why the public portrayal of older persons is
so narrowly stylised. |
"DANCING Through the Final Year: Challenges
and Perspectives of My ERC Project" |
Prof. Delia Ferri |
6th Nov 24 |
Abstract
In this talk, I will outline the core tenets and interim findings of the project “Protecting the Right to Culture of Persons with Disabilities and Enhancing Cultural Diversity through European Union Law: Exploring New Paths”, in short DANCING, funded by the European Research Council. In doing so, I will highlight some personal experiences and challenges in managing a large, “high risk/high gain”, project. |
| Affirmative or Ableist Policy: Neurodiversity at Third Level
|
Dr Etain Quigley (MU), Emma Smith (Humber Polytechnic Canada), Teresa Swan (Vancouver Island University) Conor Quigley (IADT), Molly O'Hanlon (MU), Tara Gallagher (MU)
|
4th Dec 24 |
Abstract
There has been a notable shift in how third-level (postsecondary) institutions perceive and engage with students who do not meet historically typical educational expectations. This change is reflected in the increased emphasis on equality, diversity, and inclusion in both access and retention across the sector. However, the extent to which neurodiversity is prioritised within these initiatives varies significantly across jurisdictions. Research suggests a gap between rhetoric and reality regarding neurodiversity in higher education, with many students reporting challenging experiences that can exacerbate stigma, encourage masking, and instil feelings of inadequacy. Additionally, it remains uncertain whether third-level institutions (including universities and polytechnics) fully appreciate the nuances of neurodiversity or the importance of the neurodiversity movement. This project is part of a larger international project that is coordinated by Elon University, North Carolina. The consortium is exploring inclusive education for neurodivergent students at third-level institutions. This phase of the project relates to one work package that is exploring neurodiversity policy development, access and implementation. The work package is designed to include a neuromixed team and will develop a student-led policy protocol to promote meaningful inclusion of neurodivergent students. This work package involves conducting thematic and discourse analyses—examining the presence of ableism, neurotypical privilege, and neurotypical hegemony in third-level policy documents (accessing supports, academic standing, and assessment supports)—, mapping neurodivergent student lived experience pathways - analysing experiences from admission through graduation to inform inclusive practices, and cross-jurisdictional Global Cafés/co-design workshops (n:3) to analyse the data. The final output will be a prototype of a student-led protocol for future policy development and conversations in this area. |
February
12th – Prof. Aisling McMahon
Topic: “ERC PatentsInHumans: Exploring the Health and Bioethical Implications of Patents for How We Treat, Use, and Modify the Human Body.”
Aisling will provide an overview of key bioethical and health-related impacts of patents. |
March
26th. March
26th – Dr. Derek Barter Topic: "Move Slow and Fix Things: Experiential Learning and Reflection" |
April 2nd - Dr Mohamed Maalim
Topic: "Artificial Intelligence in Occupational Therapy: Opportunities and Challenges"
Abstract: This talk explores the evolving intersection of Artificial Intelligence and Occupational Therapy, examining how AI can potentially enhance patient care, augment therapeutic interventions, and create new possibilities for rehabilitation. Join us for a discussion on the emerging opportunities, inherent challenges, and ethical considerations of integrating AI into OT practice, and explore how this evolving partnership can shape the future of healthcare. |
April 9th – Dr. Nicola Mountford
Topic: "Patient voice in funding decisions: The HRCI/HRB Joint funding scheme"
Abstract: working with Health Research Charities Ireland (HRCI) and the Health Research Board (HRB) this research project focused on the joint funding scheme run by HRB, HRCI and HRCI member charities. We were
interested in how decisions were made and influenced within this scheme and particularly in the role of patient voice through the Public and Patient Involvement (PPI) aspects of the scheme. The project was funded by Research Ireland under its New Foundations scheme 2022. The goal of this project was to influence health related funding decisions and inform funding scheme design so that projects are commissioned, designed and funded to enhance PPI in Ireland and beyond. |
April 16th- Dr. Hannah Casey
Title: Supported Decision-Making in the Irish Context: Key Lessons from Stakeholders
Abstract: Supported Decision-Making (SDM) is a process that facilitates adults with intellectual disabilities to make decisions with support from people of their choosing. This talk details the results of my PhD, “Supported Decision Making with Adults with Intellectual Disabilities, Their Family Carers, And Professional Carers.” I will focus primarily on the key outcomes following my focus groups and World Café sessions with adults with intellectual disabilities, family carers, and professional carers, and what these conversations taught me about where SDM must go next in order to flourish in an Irish context. |
