Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees

Wednesday, 7 October 2015

Joint Oireachtas Committee on Education and Social Protection

Mathematics Learning Support: Irish Mathematics Learning Support Network

2:00 pm

Mr. Ciarán O'Sullivan:

In terms of ICT, the data for the survey was gathered a few years ago so things have moved on. Certainly, we have moved on in terms of how ICT-enabled supports are used for mathematics learning support. Last year we were trying to prototype a mathematics learning support whereby a student could access human support at a distance. We are conscious of trying to move that along, but it is evolving. We see mathematics learning support as a resource, much like the library. It is a key targeted intervention and can make a huge difference in the development of confidence.

Regarding working our way back to reasons from beforehand in primary, secondary and so forth, our expertise is in helping third level students at that key point. We endeavour to inform further back about what we have learned. Dr. Mac an Bhaird will respond further on that. I am involved in several projects, such as Maths Eyes, Green Maths and so forth, that try to build students' confidence at primary level. We are aware of that aspect but our mission or focus is on the two key transitions from second level or from adults working back into college. That is where we are busy but we are aware of the other issues.

With regard to the point about points for failure and so forth, that is beyond our expertise to discuss today.