Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)

I accept that our objective should be to have a hands-on approach to teaching science. The reality, however, is that there is a lack of facilities. Coupled with overcrowded classrooms, especially at senior level, this leads to practical classes being taken on a demonstration level rather than using a hands-on approach. Will the Minister provide a timetable for the introduction of such a hands-on approach in the leaving certificate? When will the resources be put in place to deliver that programme?

Will the Minister put resources in place to provide for school laboratory technicians in order to establish such classes? Time and resources are needed to establish practical classes in which pupils can adopt a hands-on approach to science education. What steps will be taken to ensure a continuous, rolling programme of upskilling teachers on new science and technology developments? The difficulty with the syllabus approach in this country is that science and technology teachers are not being kept up to date with the latest developments in relevant sectors.

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