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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 23 Mar 1999

Vol. 502 No. 3

Written Answers. - Science Education.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

82 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Education and Science the measures, if any, he has to improve the quality of science teaching at second level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7782/99]

I have recently announced a £15 million plan to develop sciences and, in particular the physical sciences at second level. This plan includes measures to develop science teachers' skills and, thereby, the quality of science education at second level.

New syllabi in leaving certificate physics and chemistry will be issued to schools at the beginning of the next school year for introduction in September 2000. Along with support materials being developed by the NCCA and comprehensive reference handbooks for teachers prepared by my Department under a gender equity initiative, an extensive in-career development initiative for teachers of physics and chemistry at both junior certificate and leaving certificate level will be provided this year. There will be a comprehensive programme which will emphasise modern developments in teaching methods including the role of practical work in relation to these subjects. Changes in content in the new leaving certificate syllabi will also be addressed.

At junior certificate level these courses will be particularly targeted in the first instance at those teachers whose major subject qualification may not include physics or chemistry. About 500 teachers will receive additional training during 1999 with a target of providing such training for up to 1,500 teachers over the next three years if such an expanded programme is felt to be necessary.

An appropriate in-career development programme for teachers of leaving certificate biology and agricultural science will be developed in the context of the introduction of revised syllabi in these areas by 2001 or thereafter. The quality of science education is also being addressed through the review group on pre-service education which I have established. My Department is also in discussion with a number of third level institutions in relation to pre-service and in-career development needs of science teachers.
Finally, the plan recognises the importance of the use of information and communication technologies, ICTs, in all aspects of teaching and learning. The use of ICTs in the teaching of the physical sciences will also be developed, with the objective of extending it to all second level schools.
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