Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees

Tuesday, 28 March 2023

Joint Oireachtas Committee on Education and Skills

The Future of STEM in Irish Education: Discussion (Resumed)

Mr. Lee Reynolds:

To answer from general experience, "No". This is where physics has its own specific problem. Physics is based around a number of principles. Therefore, much of its equipment is related to the demonstration of a principle; it is one-purpose kit. Biology, chemistry and other STEM subjects are multi-purpose and multi-use. That means that for a well-equipped physics classroom, one would buy more equipment, which takes up more storage space and requires more technical support. School budgets are what school budgets are, so there is competition, and that harms it.

I might also refer to the question the Deputy asked of Dr. Freeman.