asked the Minister of Education if he will make a statement on the recent article in a magazine (details supplied) in which serious criticisms are levelled at the methods used to train secondary school teachers.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Magazine Article.
28.
I have seen the article in question and I do not feel called upon to make a statement in regard to the views expressed therein. The observations made represent the personal views of the author which he is free to express on his own responsibility.
Can I take it that the Minister is satisfied with the present system in relation to the training of secondary school teachers? Is he satisfied with the present situation in respect of in-class training provided for H. Dip. students? Would he not feel that there is need to have a more professional approach to ensure that new teachers have a longer period of training in class than they have at present?
The training course involves of necessity practice teaching in the class room. It is well known that we have a very sound basic qualification for secondary teachers. What improvements are to be made are, in the first instance, a matter for the various education departments in our universities that are providing the training for students. I know from experience that in those departments there are men of high competence. I am sure if there is any weakness in the training system itself or in the practice in the schools they will take steps to improve the situation.
Would the Minister not agree that for a newly qualified teacher going into school for the first time there is need for some institutionalised guidance over a period of one, two or three years from teachers who have a lot of experience? It is rather difficult for very young teachers to take on the responsibility of classes as quickly as they have to do at present.
There are employed in the university departments of education practising teachers who are allocated a certain number of trainee teachers whom they have to monitor and guide throughout their training period. These teachers are of proven ability, well above average and their guidance and help are available to trainee teachers throughout that period.