Science education in the Republic of Ireland: At first and second levels

Abstract

In recent years, the geoscience community around the world has been faced with a new series of critical problems associated with the management of waste and protection of the environment. One of the most pressing issues facing our civilization today is the production of enough science capability in geology, hydrogeology, engineering, and biology to meet the demand for the solution of these problems. Many countries are developing special programs similar to those in the United States of the National Academy of sciences,American Geological Institute, Geological Society of America, and the American Association of Petroleum Geologists. The editors of Environmental Geologyhave decided to begin a series of articles for the “Views and News” section of the journal on programs of this type being implemented around the world. The first of this series is by geoscientist Breda Naughton, Assistant Chief Executive for the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment, titled “Science Education in the Republic of Ireland: At First and Second Levels,” which follows.

The overall education policy of the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA) for first and second level education is to provide a balanced education for our young people which will contribute to their full development as individuals and give them the knowledge, skills, and competencies that will enable them to live productive and creative lives. Science is seen as an essential component of such an education in today's world.