Development Perspectives will continue to move in a direction that will help bring about a more equitable, just and fair world.  Plans for 2010 include building on our partnerships with groups, schools, colleges, universities and adult education centres.  We will also be capacity building and planning through 2010 with a view to having a 3 year strategic plan ready for implementation in early 2011  This capacity building will focus on fundraising, training and planning.

The Perks of the Job

* Plans for 2010- include 2 editions of our flagship development education programme.  Recruitment for both editions will happen in March 2010 with a total of 36 available places. One programme will be based in the North East of Ireland and will have an overseas phase in Uganda while another programme will be based in the North West of Ireland and will involve a 3 week phase in Tanzania.

* Album – Development Perspectives will work towards launching a Development Education album in late 2010.  It will address many issues and challenges involved in development and will involve a range of musicians and young people. A former participant of the programme (Aaron Dillon) will be the creative force behind this initiative.  All proceeds from the album will go towards Development Perspectives activity.

* Advanced Development Education Practitioners programme – This programme will start in April 2010 and the partners involved are DEN-L, Trocaire, Kimmage DSC and DP. This programme will run over 8 months and will build on the exisiting Development Education capacity that exists across Ireland.  Our aim is to improve the standard and effectiveness of activity across the sector by building an engaged and active community of practice.

* Global Development : Issues and Challenges facing our world  – As a result of a successful pilot project (10 week evening course, which was held in Dundalk Institute of Technology in the Autumn of 2009), DP has decided to run the programme again in the autumn of 2010.

* Research – Two pieces of research have been completed by members of the Development Perspectives team. This research will help shape future activity whilst also providing added value for the sector in general.

1. "The effectiveness of development education methodologies" is the focus of a research project that Margaret Downey is involved in.
2. Why is pedagogy the prominent teaching/learning approach used in “Development” courses in 3rd level institutions? This question is the backbone of a project that Bobby McCormack is engaged in at present.

Our future plans do not end there!!!  We are always on the look out for exciting and productive partnerships that will be mutually supportive.  If you or your organisation would like to meet up to discuss, share or act on any particular issue please feel free to contact us.