Computer Science teachers in two Donegal post-primary schools have been praised for driving a brand new programme forward in the past two years.
Ireland’s first Leaving Cert Computer Science students are set to graduate in the coming months.
Students completed the novel programme in St Eunan’s College Letterkenny and Abbey Vocational School in Donegal Town. The schools are two of the 40 in Ireland that were selected via open competition to teach the subject over the last two years.
Computer Science will be rolled out nationally for Leaving Certificate students commencing in September 2020, for examination in 2022.
Dr Oliver McGarr, senior lecturer at the School of Education at the University of Limerick, paid tribute to the teachers beginning to teach the subject and helping the on-going roll-out of the subject in schools.
“It is especially important to acknowledge the dedication of all those involved, particularly the Professional Development Service for Teachers (PDST) and the participating teachers. Along with teaching their traditional subjects over the past two years, these teachers have also taken on this new subject. Without their commitment and enthusiasm, it would not have been such as success,” added Dr McGarr.
The Lero research centre at the University of Limerick has been researching the implementation of the new Computer Science Programme at Leaving Certificate level.
Ms McInerney, who is Education and Public Engagement Manager in Lero, said the Computer Science course provides students with essential life skills and many opportunities.
“Not only have they developed crucial 21st-century skills such as problem-solving, collaboration and critical thinking, as citizens equipped with knowledge of Computer Science, they are also more informed about how digital technologies impact their lives,” she said.
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