Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

222. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if a series of matters (details supplied) will be clarified in relation to the newly announced changes to summer courses, requiring online courses to have eight hour synchronous time; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5886/23]

Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

223. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if a series of matters (details supplied) will be clarified with regard to newly announced changes to summer courses, requiring online courses to have eight-hour synchronous time; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5901/23]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I propose to take Questions Nos. 222 and 223 together.

The summer course programme for teachers contributes to the continuum of teachers’ professional learning, promotes innovation and excellence in teaching, learning and assessment, and is supportive of the goals set out as per the new national priorities. The principal objective of the summer course programme is to improve the learning experiences of teachers and to ensure that their learning has a lasting impact on pupils’ learning outcomes and experiences.

Following consideration of a review of the Summer Course Programme my Department intends to introduce some changes to the format of online summer courses. This is part of a process of improvement CPD provision overall and to ensure that courses offered to primary teachers make a direct impact on the learning experiences and outcomes of pupils in schools.

I am aware that course providers, including the INTO, and teachers have expressed concerns regarding some of these changes. Following requests from a number of providers, my Department has met with them to discuss their concerns. These are being considered and my officials will engage further as required.