Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 30 June 2022
9. Deputy Chris Andrews asked the Minister for Education if her Department issues guidelines with regard to the teaching of history to ensure it is presented in an impartial way; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25840/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe teaching of History in an impartial way is woven into the fabric of the History curricula in Irish schools and associated teacher Continuing Professional Development.
The overarching aims of the Leaving Certificate syllabus is to respect and celebrate diversity. The study of History in itself is an opportunity for students to engage with diverse aspects of human experience in a variety of cultural contexts. The syllabus facilitates students to learn how human history is created by the interaction of different individuals, groups and institutions in a variety of contexts that will invariably invite a multitude of perspectives and understanding. Students are provided with opportunities for reflective and critical work on historical evidence where bias and stereotypes are challenged.
In the Junior Cycle Framework, learning is described in terms of twenty-four Statements of Learning. These statements, taken as a whole, and aligned with the eight key skills, represent the learning that must be provided for in the programme of learning experienced by Junior Cycle students in our schools. Several Statements of Learning relate directly to history. Three statements which affirm the importance of impartiality, objectivity and fairness to the subject of History in the Junior Cycle Framework are:
- ‘the student appreciates and respects how diverse values, beliefs and traditions have contributed to the communities and culture in which he/ she lives’;
- ‘the student values local national and international heritage, understands the importance of the relationship between past and current events and the forces that drive change’
- ‘the student understands the origins and impacts of social, economic, and environmental aspects of the world around him/ her’.
At primary level, Social, Environmental and Scientific Education (SESE) consists of three subjects: Science, Geography and History. SESE enables children to explore, investigate and develop an understanding of local and wider environments. History is taught for all children from junior infants to sixth class and the curriculum supports children to develop basic skills as a historian through a knowledge and understanding of people, events and developments in the past.
Additionally, the Department has provided guidelines and identified resources for schools to promote inclusion and respecting diversity.
The Insight series on the Gov.ie website explores the themes of equality, diversity and inclusion. It considers how practitioners, parents and primary teachers can support and nurture young children to develop a positive sense of identity and belonging and ensure the meaningful participation of all children in their early educational experiences.
