Irish students drop in rankings for literacy and maths [IrishTimes]
- Published: 08 December 2010
THE RANKING of Irish students in literacy and maths has fallen dramatically in the latest OECD survey. The results, described as “disappointing’’ by Minister for Education Mary Coughlan, contradict the common perception that Ireland enjoys a “world-class” education system.
On reading levels, Ireland has slipped from fifth place in 2000 to 17th place, the sharpest decline among 39 countries surveyed.
The organisation’s Programme for International Student Assessment study says almost one-quarter of Irish 15-year-olds are below the level of literacy needed to participate effectively in society.
The trends in maths also give little cause for encouragement. Ireland has fallen from 16th to 26th place, the second steepest decline among participating countries. Ireland is now ranked as below average in maths.
While the results in science are broadly unchanged, there will be disappointment that Ireland is ranked 18th, despite the Government’s focus on the knowledge economy.
The Department of Education admitted it was surprised by the alarming decline in literacy standards. It said a comparative analysis of Junior Cert papers over the past decade had revealed no sharp decline in academic standards.
Full Story: www.irishtimes.com
