Arthur Morgan
Question:174 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Education and Science the consultations he has had in regard to changes he is considering to the ban on publishing school league tables. [9805/04]
View answerTuesday, 30 March 2004
Questions (62, 63)
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Question:187 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Education and Science his position on the existing ban on publishing school league tables. [9810/04]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 174 and 187 together.
It is desirable that parents have information about schools that is meaningful, fair and fully rounded. This information can often be anecdotal and based on hearsay. More recently, we have seen the introduction of an unofficial form of league table based upon third level entry patterns. All of this simply reflects the fact that we have steered away from a real and honest public debate about this issue in favour of catch phrases and sound bites. We have allowed a vacuum to develop and it has been filled by superficial and limited information.
It is not good enough to suggest that the issue is one of crude league tables based upon raw examination results or nothing. I do not support the form of league table, which has come into being in the absence of a well-constructed alternative. I do not want to see third level entry data continue as the only published yardstick of our schools' effectiveness. We are all aware that league tables based solely on academic results are a flawed measure of the effectiveness and quality of schools. Their use can distort the pattern of school enrolments, the access of students to education as well as the provision of curricula and participation in examinations. They can adversely affect the motivation of students and teachers alike. Their use can also lead to distortions and inequalities in the education system. It is not enough to say what we are against. We must also discuss what we want. For my part I want a real debate about the real issue.