Tony Gregory
Question:123 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans regarding the higher diploma in education. [22999/04]
View answerThursday, 30 September 2004
Questions (122)
Written answers
As the Deputy is aware, the higher diploma in education is a compulsory requirement for the registration of teachers in secondary schools. Since its establishment, the diploma has been provided by the four constituent colleges of the National University of Ireland and Trinity College Dublin. The diploma is a postgraduate qualification taken by students who hold a primary degree in a subject which is taught at post-primary level. It is provided by the education department of the universities.
A major change occurred in 1998, which impacted upon the higher diploma in education, when the Higher Diploma in Education, National University of Ireland, Applications Centre, known as the HDEAC, was established. The HDEAC centrally accepts and processes applications to the four constituent colleges of the National University of Ireland for the higher diploma in education, namely, National University of Ireland, Cork; National University of Ireland, Dublin; National University of Ireland, Galway; and National University of Ireland, Maynooth. Previously, graduates interested in studying for the higher diploma in education applied directly to the university of their choice.
The HDEAC is agent for, and acts on behalf of, the universities participating in the application system and the application regulations, procedures and timetable are agreed annually by these universities. Applicants are awarded points on the basis of performance in their primary degree, any additional relevant academic qualifications and teaching experience. Applications are made to the HDEAC through one common application form. In the case of Trinity College applicants continue to apply directly to the university and I understand that places on the higher diploma in education course are awarded on the basis of academic qualifications and the results of a competitive interview process.
I am satisfied that the HDEAC and the Trinity College procedures are working satisfactorily and I have no plans to change them at this stage.
The content, coverage and methods of delivery of the diploma vary across the four NUI colleges and Trinity College. I am aware that the education departments of the four NUI colleges and Trinity College review their diplomas on an ongoing basis to ensure that they continue to meet the needs of students and the education sector. Officials from my Department maintain contact with the various education departments in relation to the diploma and other post-graduate qualifications for teachers at primary and second levels and I will ensure that this process continues.
I am, however, satisfied that the higher diploma in education in the four NUI colleges and Trinity College are currently meeting the needs of students and the education sector. Therefore, I do not have any plans at this stage in regard to the diploma.