Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 2 Dec 1998

Vol. 497 No. 6

Written Answers - In-Service Training.

Billy Timmins

Ceist:

57 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Education and Science the plans, if any, he has to develop in-service training particularly in view of the fact that teaching methods are continually being changed and updated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22451/98]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. Martin):

The provision of effective in-service training opportunities is already a key objective of my Department and the major focus of all in-service activities is on the development of teaching methodologies.

Significant developments are taking place in the curriculum at both primary and post-primary levels and the in-career development unit of my Department is responsible for the management of the national programme of in-service training. Many of the curriculum changes are designed to ensure that the school curriculum meets the learning needs of all pupils within the system. Central to the successful implementation of the various initiatives is the employment of effective teaching methodologies and in-service training is designed to support teachers in reviewing existing practice and developing new pedagogic skills. In order to ensure greater and improved support for teachers through in-service training, the 1999 Estimates make provision for an 18 per cent increase in in-service funding.