Lack of maths focus undermines efforts to build modern knowledge economy – Clune

Ireland’s chances to building a modern knowledge economy have been thrown into doubt following a new report which showed that just 17% of students take higher level leaving cert maths, Fine Gael Innovation Spokeswoman Deirdre Clune TD said today (Monday).

“I welcome the new report from the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs which focuses on the level of mathematical proficiency in Ireland and presents a plan to make Ireland one of the top OECD countries for mathematical proficiency. This report again highlights the critical importance of mathematics for our economy and the need for a focused and long term approach to the subject.

“Alarmingly, the report highlights the fact that just 17% of students take Higher-Level Leaving Cert Mathematics, that 5,000 students did not achieve a level D grade or higher in Leaving Cert Maths in 2008, and that failure rates remain high. The Government needs to use today’s report as a signpost towards the future.

“Ireland needs a culture change in maths teaching. Otherwise this country is in danger of leaving today’s students behind and unable to participate in any future knowledge economy.

“There is no point in taking positive steps to encouraging research and development while neglecting the development of the teaching of math and science. Education Minister Batt O’Keeffe needs to outline a detailed plan for the development of maths and science teaching so that it can act as a solid foundation on which we can build a modern economy.”