Vol. 518 No. 4
79 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Education and Science the proposals he has to promote the greater study of science in second level schools and particularly among female pupils; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11726/00]
The declining uptake of science subjects at second level relates specifically to the physical sciences at senior level and is a matter of concern to me. The problem is a multifaceted one and Ireland is by no means unique in this regard. It affects most countries in the developed world to a greater or lesser extent.
A wide-ranging initiative is now being implemented by me to help address this issue.
Specifically in relation to female pupils, last week I launched comprehensive reference handbooks for teachers of physics and chemistry. The production of these handbooks constitutes part of the final phase of a major initiative aimed at increasing the participation of females in the study of the physical sciences at senior cycle.
This initiative, known as the intervention project in physics and chemistry, was implemented as part of my Department's equality of opportunity programme. It involved providing experienced teachers to introduce these subjects to schools that did not have them on the curriculum and providing support to other schools in the region. In all, over 100 schools were involved with this scheme and it has been very successful in encouraging more girls to study the physical science subjects. The number of girls studying chemistry at present is almost the same as the number of boys. The final phase of the scheme also includes the setting up of science resource centres in selected regions.
I am confident that the measures currently being implemented by my Department will make a significant contribution to addressing the issue, including the under-representation of girls in the physical sciences.
