Vol. 492 No. 7
43 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science his views on the criticism that the leaving certificate has become too much of a memory test rather than a thinking test; the proposals, if any, he has in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15002/98]
The leaving certificate, of course, makes some demands on the candidate's memory. However, the variety of assessment modes in use ensures that an apropriate range of skills is tested in line with the requirements of the syllabi. While candidates may be required to produce factual information, particularly in written examinations, they are, as a rule, required to deploy a range of skills such as analysing, evaluating, comparing, and reaching conclusions. Orals, aurals, practicals, and project work are used as part of the established leaving certificate, the leaving certificate vocational programme and the leaving certificate applied. These modes of assessment require candidates to integrate different types of knowledge and use information productively.
The link modules, which are examined in the leaving certificate vocational programme, involve self-directed learning, innovation and enterprise.
The leaving certificate applied is examined in a way that de-emphasises memorisation, generally speaking, and promotes active learning methodologies across the curriculum. The student tasks which are examined externally involve the application in a practical way of knowledge and skills acquired through different disciplines.
