26TRA283 The Science of Learning: What Does It Mean for Literacy Instruction?

 

 

 

 

 

Date:     Wednesday, 25th February 2026
Time:     7:00 pm - 8.00pm
Venue:  Online Via Zoom

Target Audience: Primary Mainstream and Special Education Teachers

Join Deirdre O’Toole for an engaging webinar exploring the science of learning and its implications for effective literacy instruction. This session will unpack key principles from cognitive science (including memory, attention, and practice) and examine how they can be applied meaningfully in the primary classroom. Participants will gain clear, practical insights into aligning literacy teaching with how children actually learn, moving beyond trends and assumptions to evidence-informed practice. Grounded in current research and classroom realities, this webinar offers concrete guidance to support stronger literacy outcomes for all learners.

Bio of Presenter: Deirdre O' Toole

Deirdre O’Toole is a primary teacher and PhD candidate at Mary Immaculate College, where her research focuses on early literacy acquisition. She delivers professional development for primary teachers across Ireland, supporting evidence-informed approaches to literacy instruction. Deirdre runs Playful Classroom, providing practical, research-based teaching resources and training. She is also the founder of the Science of Reading Discussion for Irish Teachers Facebook group and Right to Read Ireland, advocating for high-quality literacy education for all children.