Ireland’s first national professional development framework (PD Framework) for all who teach in
Irish higher education was launched in 2016, following a period of extensive consultation across
the sector. An initial implementation (pilot study) was conducted during the academic year 2016-
2017, involving 230 staff from universities, institutes of technology and private colleges across 22
groups. This report presents findings from this initial implementation stage of the PD Framework.
The resource comprises of a literature review and an executive summary, developed as part of the Maynooth University Leadership and EducAtion Framework (LEAF) initiative. It explores how education frameworks can enhance teaching, learning and curriculum design in higher education, supporting inclusive, sustainable and values-led academic practice.





