Poor resources in geography classes

A SHORTAGE of technology and other resources is hindering the teaching of the sixth most popular Leaving Certificate subject, school inspectors have found.

In a report on geography at second level, the Department of Education inspectorate expresses concern about the use of information and communications technology (ICT) in about half of schools.

The report published by Education Minister, Batt O’Keeffe, last night also found that access to geography resources was limited in some schools where not all classes were taught in a dedicated geography room.

The subject was taken by 24,360 students for Leaving Certificate last June, 47% of all who took the exams. Although this is a slightly lower proportion than last year, there has been an increase in uptake since a new syllabus was first examined in 2006.

Based on visits by inspectors to 50 schools and 195 teachers, the report found that while ICT was used as an effective research tool by students and teachers in some instances, the absence of integration of ICT was noted in half of all geography lessons.

“A digital camera, laptop computer and data projector could be used to further enhance the good work already in evidence,” wrote one inspector after a visit.

The findings are likely to add further pressure on the Government to start spending the €252m promised for schools ICT under the National Development Plan.

While inspectors found the provision of access to ICT equipment for geography was supported in many schools, there was concern about inadequate access to equipment at other schools. They said geography teachers often found it disruptive moving students in schools where any technology equipment was based in computer rooms.

Mr O’Keeffe said his department has provided effective resources and training for geography teachers to implement the new syllabus, including an online interactive mapping application given to all second level schools. He was speaking at the annual conference in Cork of the Association of Geography Teachers of Ireland, which inspectors commended for the support it offers to members.