Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 17 February 2005
151 Mr. Aylward asked the Minister for Education and Science when she will approve the introduction of the new curriculum to students in technology education as recommended by the Techno Teachers Association; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5416/05]
Amharc ar fhreagraFollowing a review by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment, NCCA, of the three technological subjects at leaving certificate level four syllabi have been submitted to my Department for consideration. These are engineering technology, formerly engineering; architectural technology, formerly construction studies; design and communication graphics, formerly technical drawing; and technology, no equivalent leaving certificate subject currently in existence.
This was followed by further advice and analysis on implementation issues relating to in-service provision and facilities at school level which was forwarded to my Department last year. It is the Department's intention to progress the implementation of the revised syllabi as soon as possible. However, the recommendations call for a major investment in terms of infrastructure and staff development and it will be important that implementation is underpinned by the full level of supports necessary for schools to adopt the new programmes. Funding is not available in the current year to make significant progress on implementation.
However, my Department is currently developing proposals to secure a commitment to the necessary multi-annual funding package which will enable the revised syllabi to be implemented at the earliest possible date. This is crucial in order to establish specific target dates for the introduction of the syllabi.
