Rachel Farrell

Rachel Farrell is an Assistant Professor and Associate Dean for Undergraduate Studies at University College Dublin, School of Education, where she leads the Professional Master of Education (PME) programme and drives innovation in teacher education and digital pedagogy. Her work bridges research, policy, and practice across national and international contexts.

Educational Background:

• BSc(Econ), University of London
• HDipEd, Maynooth University
• MA, University College Dublin
• PhD, University College Dublin

Research Interests: Rachel specializes in virtual and augmented reality (XR), AI and cybersecurity education, sustainability in teaching, inclusive pedagogy, and technology-enhanced learning. Her research emphasizes equity, digital resilience, and transformative educational models. She draws on theoretical frameworks such as adaptive expertise and constructionism to explore how immersive technologies can reshape teaching and learning.

Recent Research Trends: Her recent publications (2020–2024) reflect a strong focus on the integration of XR and AI in initial teacher education, digital transformation in schools, and crisis-driven pedagogical innovation. Her work often involves cross-border collaborations and emphasizes democratic, student-centered, and partnership-based models of learning.

Scientific Awards & Recognition:

• National Digital Awards 2024/25 Finalist – Digital Trailblazer
• UCD Impact Case Study Runner Up 2024
• Teaching and Academic Development Fellowship 2023
• UCD College of Social Sciences and Law Teaching Excellence Award 2022
• University Teaching Excellence Award 2022
• UCD Values in Action Award 2022
• John Coolahan Award for Best Seed Funding Report 2021
• UCD Impact Case Study Runner Up 2021

Advising, Grants & Leadership: Rachel leads multiple externally funded projects, including initiatives with Science Foundation Ireland, Irish Aid, Erasmus+, and the Department of Foreign Affairs. She is the founder of the UCD Centre for Cyber Resilience Education (CyberWise) and advisor to the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications on cybersecurity education. She also serves on key committees and professional networks such as the Ubuntu Network, VIRTUE Network, and ADAPT Centre, demonstrating strong leadership in educational innovation and policy.

Labs and Teams: She leads the CyberWise initiative and collaborates with the ADAPT Centre and SchooVR (where she is Director of Education). She is active in international research networks including ANGEL and the VIRTUE Network, focusing on global education, sustainability, and immersive technologies.