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Why are there no computer-related subjects on the Leaving Cert. syllabus?

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    #32
    STBR
    Registered Users Posts: 442 ✭✭STBR


    sharky86 wrote: »
    I beleive they already have this and call it level 6in the national frame work
    Wow...

    Even after all the valid points.


    Anyone else like to input? :D


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    #33
    pjtb
    Closed Accounts Posts: 141 ✭✭pjtb


    A computers subject would have to deal with more areas than those dealt with specifically in the ECDL, using Word/Excel/access etc. etc. is only a very narrow area. It would of course be included in the subject, but would not have to be its specific focus.

    I'd say there would be great scope for electives in things like computer game design or other relevant, related areas. The actual physical make up of computers would also have to be included, maybe not in great detail though.

    I'd say practical and project work couldn't account for more than 60% if it is to be a recognised LC/JC subject, very few if any subjects would exceed that percentage. A written paper would have to be included.

    And the point about level 6 in the national framework, loads of subjects in the leaving cert have relevant fetac or other courses. But you can't study those along with the LC!


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    #34
    spurious
    Moderators, Category Moderators, Education Moderators Posts: 27,160 CMod ✭✭✭✭spurious


    The Applied Leaving Cert. has a compulsory IT module and the option of a Vocational Specialism in IT.

    The Dept of Ed. and Sc. won't even fund necessary special needs classes. They are not going to equip schools with IT equipment and keep them up to date.


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    #35
    Pygmalion
    Closed Accounts Posts: 5,082 ✭✭✭Pygmalion


    Probably an unpopular opinion but I'm going into CA next year and I honestly think I would've hated a computer course in Secondary school.
    I've seen the kinds of things they do in "Computer Science" high school classes in America and stuff and it just seems like it puts people off computers even more, I'd say if I had to sit through one of those I would've lost any interest I had.

    Basic computer skills are possessed by pretty much everyone with access to a computer from a young enough age anyway so don't need to be taught.
    And programming doesn't suit everyone, doing it right requires good problem solving skills which a lot of people don't have, and it can't really be taught, since like 99% of people would put it down on their subject choices just because either they think they'll enjoy more than they actually will or intend to spend all class on Bebo/Facebook that would mean a horribly dumbed down and boring syllabus, and might put off the people with genuine talent.


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    #36
    pjtb
    Closed Accounts Posts: 141 ✭✭pjtb


    spurious wrote: »
    The Applied Leaving Cert. has a compulsory IT module and the option of a Vocational Specialism in IT.

    The Dept of Ed. and Sc. won't even fund necessary special needs classes. They are not going to equip schools with IT equipment and keep them up to date.

    You're right. But it should be one of the first potential subjects assessed by the NCCA whenever funds become available. In my school the Technical Drawing room had to be fitted out with a roomful of computers and the whole room layout changed (requiring new workstations instead of desks) for the new Design and Communication Graphics course . Granted this took place before (but only slightly before) gov. funds ran completely dry, but it was still done.


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    #37
    spurious
    Moderators, Category Moderators, Education Moderators Posts: 27,160 CMod ✭✭✭✭spurious


    I doubt the Department pays for any technical support or upgraded packages.
    In a few years the spanking new PCs and their packages will be out of date.

    The level of funding for schools in this country is ludicrous. For example, the compulsory 'swyin flew' precautions (sprays, hand gels, extra cleaning products etc.) all have to be paid for, but schools were given no additional funds for all the extra supplies. For our school, it has already eaten up the funds for about four new PCs and will continue to cost the price of a PC weekly.


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