Monica Barnes
Ceist:33 Mrs. Barnes asked the Minister for Education and Science his views on whether points are more difficult to achieve in some subjects such as science and that this is distorting pupil choice. [16148/00]
Written Answers. - Subject Choices.
It is clear from both my Department's annual statistical report and analyses undertaken for the national council for curriculum and assessment, that variation in grade allocation between subjects in State examinations exists. However, while the variation can be clearly identified, no definitive research as to its causes has been undertaken, although it would appear that many complex, varied and inter-related factors may be involved. It is, likewise, difficult to gauge the extent to which this variation may be a factor in students' subject choices.
The variation in grade allocation was also considered by the Commission on the Points System. Analyses undertaken by the commission suggested "that there was an expectation [among students] that it would be easier to gain a high grade in certain subjects". The commission recommended that research be undertaken to identify the cause, or causes, of the variation in existing patterns of grade allocation across leaving certificate subjects. The recommendations of the commission are currently under active consideration in my Department, and planning for an implementation strategy is under way.
The Economic and Social Research Institute is currently undertaking a study of the factors influencing students' choices of science subjects in senior cycle of second level schools. The second phase of this study will be completed in the autumn of this year. My Department looks forward to considering the findings of this study.