Current Research
I am a co-convenor of the Centre for Research in IT and Education (CRITE),a collaboration between the School of Computer Science & Statistics and the School of Education. Its research agenda includes both the exploration of how technology can be used to enhance teaching & learning and the advancement of theories, research, tools and social practices of Computing Education. The close synergy between the two academic disciplines involved is a distinguishing feature of the Centre and allows it to develop tools and pedagogical strategies which benefit from both technological and educational perspectives.
My current research focus is on Computing Education, where I am particularly interested in access and retention issues. I am PI for the OurKidsCode Project, a research project funded by Research Ireland and the Department of Rural and Community Development (DRCD), which aims to increase parental involvement in Computing Education.