Active learning ideas
This topic examines the complex factors driving the current housing crisis in Ireland, focusing on supply issues, rising rents, and the increasing number of individuals and families in emergency accommodation. Students explore the social consequences of housing insecurity, particularly for young people and marginalized groups. The module aligns with the NCCA LCA Social Education syllabus by connecting local social problems to broader economic policies and the role of both government and NGOs like Focus Ireland or Peter McVerry Trust.
Activity 01
In small groups, students use property websites to find available rentals in their local area versus a major city like Dublin. They compare these costs against the minimum wage and social welfare rates to calculate the 'affordability gap.'
What are the main causes of homelessness in Ireland?
Activity 02
The class is divided into two teams to argue for and against government intervention in the private rental market. Students must use evidence regarding tenant security and landlord investment to support their points.
How does the housing crisis affect young people?
Activity 03
Students take on roles as charity workers, local councilors, and community members to design a support strategy for a new family hub. They must prioritize services like education, healthcare, and long-term housing pathways.
What role do NGOs play in supporting the homeless?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Homelessness only refers to people sleeping on the streets.
Teachers should clarify the concept of 'hidden homelessness,' including people in emergency accommodation, hostels, or 'couch surfing.' Active investigation of national homelessness figures helps students see the full scale of the issue.
The housing crisis is only a problem in Dublin.
While Dublin is heavily impacted, students can use local data to see how rising costs affect rural and regional towns. Peer-led research into local rental markets quickly dispels the idea that this is a city-only issue.
Methods used in this brief