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)
Ms Helen McMahon:
That was highlighted yesterday in the research that came out of the University of Galway in relation to computer science, in that there is not enough attraction of teacher talent in that area because of that competition because you will get more money and benefits working in industry than you would potentially as a teacher. There is definitely a squeeze in terms of skills in that area in terms of attracting and retaining.
It is also about promoting that career opportunity. There are benefits in teaching and learning that suit certain individuals in a different way. It should be encouraged and grown. It is about promoting career pathways and empowering lifelong learners, and also creating that talent pipeline in teachers, as well as in terms of STEM professionals going into industry.