Why it's really time to mind our languages in schools [Independent.ie]
- Published: 29 September 2010
Irish jobseekers and businesses are losing out because of their poor grasp of foreign languages. While much of the recent attention in education has focused on poor performance in maths and science, the tongue-tied nature of the Irish curriculum is now causing concern.
Figures from the European Commission show that Irish primary schools have the lowest levels of foreign language tuition in Europe.
And the recent OECD report 'Education at a Glance' showed that the amount of hours devoted to languages at second-level in Ireland is around half the average, at 7pc.
The language shortfall has not gone unnoticed.
Paul Sweetman, director of ICT Ireland, a body that represents employers in the computer sector, says: "A lot of our members are now talking about the need for employees with language skills in order to market their products effectively.''
Full Story: www.independent.ie
