Ulick Burke
Question:95 Mr. U. Burke asked the Minister for Education and Science the plans, if any, he has to upgrade science facilities in second level schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12117/99]
Written Answers. - Leaving Certificate Curriculum.
The Deputy will be aware of my recent announcement concerning a £1 5 million programme for the development of science in second level schools. In making this announcement, I said that it is critical for Ireland's development as a world leader in high-skills employment that we improve our performance in physics and chemistry. Over the last year, my officials and I have been examining the current state of these subjects in our schools.
A major programme of investment in modernising school science laboratories will be implemented. Details of this will be finalised following the completion of a detailed analysis of a survey of science facilities undertaken in recent months.
In March of this year, details of a new payment to schools for each student undertaking physics or chemistry were circulated to all second level schools. This initiative; which will be introduced from September, 1999 and which will cost over £300,000 in a full year; involves providing schools with £10 for each student to aid in the purchase of materials for these classes.
I am confident that this initiative will encourage an increased uptake of the physical sciences in our schools, opening up increased opportunities for students, and in the process, enhancing Ireland's highly deserved reputation for a well-educated and scientifically literate workforce.
Eamon Gilmore
Question:97 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Education and Science the proposals, if any, he has to implement his new initiative on science at second level through the provision of laboratory technician posts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12794/99]
There will be a greater emphasis on practical work when the new physics and chemistry syllabi are introduced in September 2000 and when the new biology and agricultural science syllabi are introduced thereafter. My Department is considering the possibility of assessment of this practical work as part of the examination of those subjects.
Many elements of the recent initiative on physical sciences – resourcing of laboratories, upskilling of the teachers and indeed the revised syllabi – will contribute greatly to the possible introduction of this assessment. There have been demands for the provision of laboratory assistants/technicians from teachers in the context of this greater emphasis on practical work. Many schools have availed of opportunities provided by community employment schemes or used their own resources to provide this technical support. My Department will give this matter further analysis as part of its consideration for support for schools across a number of areas. I believe that the full series of initiatives have to be implemented and the extent of the need for laboratory assistance for teachers ascertained before any firm decision on this matter can be made.