Written answers

Tuesday, 25 February 2014

Department of Education and Skills

School Curriculum

Photo of Mary Mitchell O'ConnorMary Mitchell O'Connor (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

309. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills his views on including computer programming as a leaving certificate subject; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9556/14]

Photo of Ruairi QuinnRuairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

At Senior Cycle, the NCCA is currently working on the revision of a significant number of Leaving Certificate subjects. The development of ICT skills across all subjects and aspects of teaching and learning is critical. Such skills are not just confined to particular Leaving Certificate subjects such as in the study of Design Communication and Graphics where it is a core component of learning but such skills are a core component of the students learning experience right across senior cycle. ICT is seen as a cross curricular tool which enhances the learning experience and is required by students in everyday life.

In the context of the revision of the senior cycle, there are no plans currently to introduce a discrete "computer programming" subject but the use of ICT.

There are short courses in "digital media literacy" and "programming and coding" currently being finalised by the NCCA for the new junior cycle. In Transition Year there is an option in relation to Having Fun with Computer Programming and Games and, under the ICT Action Plan, this is being expanded nationally.

I would also note that the rollout of 100mbps high speed broadband to all post primary schools will be completed by this September.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.