Olivia Mitchell
Ceist:10 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science if he is committed to retaining the graduate diploma in education in the colleges of education; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21567/03]
Ceisteanna – Questions. - Teaching Qualifications.
The graduate diploma is a full-time course run to enable third level graduates to train as primary teachers. It was introduced as a response to a shortage in the supply of primary teachers. It was first provided in the 1995-96 academic year and has been repeated on a number of occasions since then. The most recent course commenced in February of this year.
My Department is examining the teacher supply and demand needs to facilitate planning for the future. It is expected that this examination will be completed shortly. Discussions can then commence with the colleges of education on a further course.
Is the Minister committed to retaining the graduate diploma and does he believe there is a need for it? Has the commencement of an on-line course for teacher training changed the landscape? Does the Minister believe an on-line teacher training course is a sufficient replacement for a hands-on course?
We discussed on a number of previous occasions the issue of a modular graduate diploma course. I was under the impression discussions were ongoing with the colleges on that. However, if we are not even sure we are retaining the graduate diploma, have the students hoping for the modular course any hope?
We are committed to ensuring that a sufficient number of primary teachers graduate each year. We can only establish whether there is a sufficient number when we examine the teacher supply and demand figures, which are being considered by the Department. If there is a need for the course, it will proceed, but there is not a blanket commitment that we will provide the course every year.
The on-line course will have an effect on teacher supply and demand because the people who undertake it will be qualified national school teachers when they complete it. We would have to take into account the numbers in that area.
The modular course is being demanded by a number of people to try to facilitate students. Its format would be of benefit and the teacher unions are strongly in favour of it. Earlier this year we asked the various colleges to try to bring forward proposals in this regard. One college, the Hibernia College, has submitted a proposal in the intervening period which is being considered by HETAC. Officials in the Department have decided the modular course and any consideration of the graduate course should be deferred until these considerations had been completed. There is a commitment – certainly an interest – in ensuring some kind of modular course is introduced as it would suit people which other types of course do not suit.
Is teacher training better when provided on a hands-on rather than on an online basis?
I will not be dragged into that debate. HETAC is the body with responsibility for assessing courses and awarding them recognition. It has made its decision on the matter.