In this lightning talk, Dr Maeve O’Dwyer will analyse the concept of ‘third space’ (Whitchurch, 2008; 2012) within the Irish Higher Education context. Staff engaged in teaching and learning and/or research which is non-disciplinary, extra-curricular and/or staff-focused in nature can be identified as third space professionals. But to what extent is ‘third space’ a useful concept in articulating roles and identities for instructional technologists or learning designers? Does it break down silos between ‘academic’ and ‘non-academic’ work, or deepen the divide?

This short talk will cover:

• What is meant by ‘third space’ in Higher Education
• Highlights from existing literature (mostly focused on UK, US, Australia and New Zealand), relevant to instructional technologists and other 'third space' roles
• Preliminary findings from research into Irish HEIs.

Drawing on ongoing research on the impact of third space professionals in the Irish Higher Education context, this short talk will introduce, challenge, and provoke thought as to what extent ‘third space’ can empower us to better articulate our roles and identities at an increasingly challenging time across the Higher Education sector.