Declan's work in higher learning institutions has given him the opportunity to specialize in many forms of academic writing. As well as curriculum design in English Composition and English as a Second Language, he has designed instructional materials for Persuasive and creative writing.
In addition to this wealth of academic styles he has also worked with more general forms of Business writing including
transactional reports, data interpretation, and workshop presentations.
Declan's interests are shaped by his passion for learning and discovery. He has recently begun learning to code and hopes to gain enough competency to one day teach it to others.
With his consumption of a wide variety of styles and authors, he has developed a unique creative voice that harnessed elements of guttural slang and everyday speech patterns. He is currently working on his first novel.
Declan's Master's was achieved through an intensive, full-time year-long course of study. This self-guided program involved learning and implementing methods of research ranging from historical archives to in-person interviews. His thesis focused on radical political movements in 19th century Ireland.
Declan's undergraduate degree was gained at Ulster University and focused on Irish history and International Politics. His thesis focused on commemoration throughout the Irish Diaspora.
Declan achieved his CELTA through a rigorous month-long course in the International House, Belfast. The Cambridge level course involved in-depth pedological study and in-person teaching.
Having worked in education for over a decade, Declan is highly capable of communicating high concept ideas around pedagogy and social issues. With the increased awareness and drive for social justice, Declan has completed a range of training and professional development in the creation of a more equitable classroom. On a daily basis, he operates in a highly diverse educational setting and is passionate about striving to make all students feel represented and heard.
He has facilitated workshops and staff trainings focused on best practices around student support and retention. He strives to design and implement practical and pragmatic reforms based on data and feedback.
As a contributor to departmental newsletters, Declan has produced many pieces detailing the latest developments within his program. These pieces have covered the last six years of events within the college, program, and society at large. His writing has provided insight into classroom collaboration, best practices, and issues around social justice.
Declan has written think pieces and blogs on culture, entertainment, history, identity and politics. As a writer, he is interested in tackling subjects both important and trivial in a clear and professional style. He is currently building his portfolio and hopes to publish on a monthly basis.
Declan has designed and hosted 5 workshops for staff and faculty. The training material Declan specializes in concentrates on student engagement and culturally sensitive teaching. Utilizing the latest research and thinking on equity-focused classrooms, Declan has been able to build presentations that are accessible and current.