Hibernia College has become the first European university to join the Alliance for Innovation in Teacher Education, an international partnership led by the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) and the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD). The move strengthens Hibernia College’s commitment to preparing educators for digitally enhanced classrooms.

As a member, Hibernia College will integrate ISTE Standards across its Professional Master’s of Education programme. The college will also develop professional credentials enabling teacher candidates to demonstrate practical proficiency in using technology for learning. Faculty will gain access to professional development initiatives through the Alliance, enhancing instructional capabilities and digital integration expertise.

ISTE+ASCD, formed through a 2023 merger, provides standards, training, and thought leadership on educational technology and AI-driven learning. Richard Culatta, CEO of ISTE+ASCD and former Executive Director of the US Department of Education’s Office of Educational Technology, emphasised that technology literacy is critical for teacher effectiveness. Hibernia College faculty and students will now have direct access to resources and guidance from a network of over 140 global institutions.

Dr. Mary Kelly, Academic Dean of Hibernia College, said the partnership ensures that future educators are equipped to deliver meaningful, technology-supported learning experiences. The collaboration will also promote interaction between faculty and school leaders to develop shared competencies in digital teaching.

For Hibernia College, membership in the Alliance represents a strategic enhancement of teacher preparation programmes. The college’s 2,500 student teachers and 600 adjunct faculty will benefit from structured, evidence-based learning in technology integration. The initiative addresses the growing demand for educators capable of supporting hybrid classrooms, digital curricula, and AI-assisted instruction, positioning graduates to meet contemporary educational challenges.

Read how Hibernia College is shaping the next generation of digitally proficient educators and expanding faculty development across Ireland and beyond in the full story.