Orla Kelly

Dr Orla Kelly is a Lecturer in Social, Environmental and Scientific Education in the Church of Ireland College of Education in Dublin, with responsibility for science, history and geography education on the BEd. Prior to this appointment in 013, she was the subject leader for science at Plymouth University. She was appointed as a Lecturer in Science Education in 2006 and the beginnings of a productive and enjoyable research partnership with Roger Cutting began when they were awarded a Plymouth University Teaching Fellowship. It was also at Plymouth University that she had the opportunity to share her passion for drama, teaching it to students on both the BEd and PGCE. As a qualified speech and drama teacher and a chemistry graduate Orla has long been aware of the perceived tension between the Creative Arts and Science. Her PhD research was centred around problem-based learning as an innovative approach to teaching practical chemistry. Her passion and interest in innovative teaching approaches continues and guides her research and practice. She is a member of the advisory panel for Chemistry Education Research and Practice and is a regular reviewer. She has a number of peer-reviewed publications and has presented widely at a variety of international conferences.