Large-scale changes to the way in which the Junior Certificate is assessed may take place in the future if plans detailed yesterday (July 11th) by the Education Minister Ruairi Quinn are put in place.

Over the next five to ten years, the current method of grading pupils' performance based solely on exams is likely to be replaced with a system of continuous assessment where coursework is given a much higher priority, the Irish Independent reports.

If the proposed reforms are accepted, around half of a student's marks would be awarded in this way, Mr Quinn stated, with work being submitted for grading electronically.

However, the Teachers' Union of Ireland warned problems that could be encountered by a shift to continuous assessment may include a rise in plagiarism and an increase in educators' workloads.

Recently, it was also announced that the number of subjects to be taken by Junior Certificate candidates will be cut to eight in order to assist a new drive to boost literacy and numeracy in the country.

Written by Donal Walsh
 

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