Saturday, September 29, 2007
What I Most Want to get out of This Experience
What I most want to get out of this experience is the culture. I have no Irish heritage in either side of my family, but for some reason Irish and Celtic history truly interests me. I have done extensive research on places to see and visit while abroad. I cannot wait to visit and walk through some of theses ancient historical sites. I also want to experience the local and present day culture. The people of Ireland are said to be some of the most hospitable and interesting individuals in the world. For me, being a part of this culture will be a wonderful experience; I truly cannot wait to go!
Why I Have Chosen to Student Teach Abroad
Since I was a child, I have always been interested in other places around the globe. I have a strong love of travel and a great desire to visit and experience other cultures. I cannot think of a better way to immerse myself in a different culture than to teach students in another country. I also am very excited to live an “Irish” life. To be a person living, working, and traveling in another country is extremely appealing and exciting to me. I cannot wait to go; I am truly hoping to have a life altering experience.
Cultural Development Objectives
1. Learn techniques that will enable me to teach in any type of classroom.
2. Learn how to adapt my teaching style and lesson plans to be effective and useful in any classroom.
3. To completely immerse myself in a different culture, and still be able to be a
productive individual.
4. To bring my knowledge, which was gained from a public American education and share it with students who are educated in a completely different school system.
5. To take away knowledge from students who have been educated in an entirely different school system than myself.
6. To dispel any cultural myths about America to individuals from another country.
2. Learn how to adapt my teaching style and lesson plans to be effective and useful in any classroom.
3. To completely immerse myself in a different culture, and still be able to be a
productive individual.
4. To bring my knowledge, which was gained from a public American education and share it with students who are educated in a completely different school system.
5. To take away knowledge from students who have been educated in an entirely different school system than myself.
6. To dispel any cultural myths about America to individuals from another country.
September 2007
Country/Nation Information
Population: Estimated at 4,350,000 total (3.9 million in the Republic, 1.7 in Northern Ireland) last census in 2006. Young population; 37% under the age of 25.
Currency: The Republic uses the Euro; conversion rate is, 1 Euro = 1.32948 American dollars. The Euro comes in bills and coins. Bill increments are 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 Euro. Coins come in increments of 1 and 2 Euro, and 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents. Northern Ireland uses pounds. Pounds come in coins and bills as well. Coins come in increments of 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p, L1, and L2. Bills come in increments of L5, L10, L20, and L50. There are 100 pence (p) to a pound (L).
Capital: The City of Dublin, located on the Eastern coast, a metropolitan city with a population of approximately 505,739 people.
Airports: Ireland has four international airports (Shannon, Dublin, Cork, and Belfast), and seven regional airports (Derry, Donegal, Knock, Galway, Sligo, Waterford, Kerry). Largest is in Dublin; I will arrive and depart the country from this airport.
People: Ireland is a very young country in terms of age; the average age of its citizens is 34 years, male, 33.2 years, female, 34.8 years. The population growth rate is 1.15%. The birth rate is 14.45 births/1,000 population; the death rate is 7.82 deaths/1,000 population.
The Irish people have characteristics that are internationally recognizable. They are famous for their friendly humor and quick wit. Many Irish natives enjoy spending time with family and friends at local pubs, which is considered the “hub” of local social life. The Irish place a great importance on religion. It is a part of their everyday life from conversation, to politics, to work and play. It is a binder for many families, and communities.
The Irish are also famous for their hospitality, and open door policy. Many Irish are proud of their country and are eager to show it to outsiders who are interested in learning more about the Irish culture and history.
Being that Ireland is a very Catholic nation, many are fiercely pro-life and do not under any circumstances condone or believe in abortion. Many do not even wish to discuss it and it is a taboo topic in the country, the same is true for the topic of incest.
The country of Ireland as a whole has historically had a low domestic crime rate, with high rates of imprisonment for crimes. However, recent studies show that this domestic crime rate is rising.
Culture: The Irish people have a tremendously unique and interesting culture. Most people around the world are familiar with stereotypical forms of Irish instences, such as pots of gold at the end of rainbows, four leaf clovers, leprechauns, drinking pints of Guinness at local pubs, kissing the Blarney stone, and drinking more than enough green beer on St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin. These are all things that do to a certain extent define the Irish culture, but there is so much more to this nation of people.
For instance, the Irish are a people who are famous for their music and dance. Their unique blend of instrumentation and song create ballads unlike any other heard in the world. Their dances are reflections of their heritage. Both are an enormous part of the Irish people’s daily lives.
Sports are another large part of the Irish culture. Soccer, rugby, golf, equestrian sports, boxing, sailing, and rowing are all nationally recognized sports, which Irish individuals take part in and view regularly. Traditionally Irish people are known for their competitive spirit and strong will, so competition and athleticism are naturally a large part of the Irish culture.
Another large and very important part of the Irish people’s culture is their extremely close familial ties. Immediate as well as extended family is very important to the Irish people. Traditionally families are very close knit, they include a number of different generations and extensions are not uncommon. Not only do the Irish place high importance on family relationships, they also place great importance on friendships, many treat friends as family members, and go out of their way to visit, and keep in touch with others. The Irish are also known for their great hospitality, to both friends and travelers.
Traditionally Ireland is a very religious country. High importance is placed on attending mass, and prayer. Many Irish individuals also choose to enter the religious life in the form of priests, brothers, sisters and lay individuals; more so than in any other country around the world.
One of the most well known Irish stereotype, is that the Irish are a very superstitious culture. This is often misconstrued in that a large part of the Irish culture and history is folklore. Folklore consists of traditional stories and fables that are passed down from generation to generation, usually by word of mouth.
Finally, a very large part of Irish culture is their long history as a country. Irish people are very patriotic and take great pride in their country, culture and history.
Weather: The country as a whole has a temperate maritime climate. Due to its location in the Atlantic Ocean and its proximity to the Gulf Stream, Ireland has a very high annual rainfall, about 31 to 47 inches a year. About half of the days in a year the skies in Ireland are covered with clouds; and rain is likely during all times of the year. Wind is also very common in Ireland. The north and west coasts are the windiest places in the country. Ireland does not typically experience extremes in temperatures. The daily average temperature is 50 degrees F. The coldest winter months are January and February with temperatures ranging from 39 and 44 degrees F. Snow in winter is likely, more so in mountainous regions. The warmest summer months are July and August. Temperatures range from 64 and 66 degrees F. Sun is likely in spring and summer.
Language: The official language is Irish, a Celtic language. Most residents do speak and comprehend English, almost all speak it with an Irish brogue though.
Diversity of Culture: For decades Ireland was a very poor country that millions fled from in order to seek a better, more profitable life. So in the past, individuals coming into the country to live was extremely rare, this has led to very little cultural diversity in Ireland. Within the past three decades Ireland had been experiencing an economic and technological boom, this influx of opportunity and jobs has led to people choosing to move to Ireland for the first time in almost centuries. This is leading to grater diversity amongst the Irish population.
Traditionally, Ireland is referred to as a mono-culture, meaning that there is little ethnic and cultural diversity within its boarders. This mono-culture has led many individuals to become very comfortable with their own people and less than inviting to those of other cultures who immigrate to the country. Fortunately today there are various organizations who are seeking to breakdown the barriers and help Irish citizens become more comfortable with the fact that their country is slowly but surely becoming more diverse. One of these organizations is the National Action Plan Against Racism (NPAR). This organization has a five step process that helps individuals to accept diversity in their country more and more; the steps are: Protection, inclusion, provision, recognition, participation.
Political Conditions: The political relationship between The Republic and Northern Ireland has been somewhat shaky and unsettle to say the least. Many individuals tend to gloss over the clashes between Northern Ireland and the Republic “known as the troubles” as a conflict between the Catholics and Protestants. This conflict is much deeper than a religious issue. It involves economics, social and political issues as well. There is a clash in ideas and beliefs between the two parties, The Unionists (who want the status quo of union with Britain) as the Nationalists (who want Irish unity). The two parties were supposed to sit together in government and share power, this has been extremely difficult, and since 2002 the Unionists have refused to sit in government with the nationalists making governing the country anything but easy.
While “the troubles” were mostly quelled and considered over in 1998 by “The Good Friday Agreement” scuffles do still take place from time to time though. A rogue branch of the army called the Real IRA is still active in Ireland.
Religion: There is no official religion in Ireland; but the majority of residents (88%) are Catholic. The Catholic Church has four ecclesiastical provinces, each with its own archbishop, they are: Armagh, Dublin, Cashel and Tuam. They are all located in the north, east, south and west of the country, respectively. Each of these provinces consists of a number of dioceses; there are 27 total dioceses in all. The combined Catholic population of the Republic and of Northern Ireland is about 3.9 million people, approximately 92% in the Republic, and 40% in Northern Ireland. There are approximately 1,300 parishes served by about 4,000 priests. The rate of religious practice among Irish Catholics is one of the highest in the world. There are approximately 20,000 men and women in various religious orders of priests, brothers and sisters.
The Church of Ireland is a Protestant Episcopal Church. The Church is organized into twelve dioceses. The Archbishop of Armagh is the Primate of All Ireland. The General Synod holds chief legislative power over the church; this includes archbishops, bishops, 216 representatives of the clergy and 432 representatives of the laity.
The Roman Catholic Church and The Church of Ireland (protestant) are the two main religions in Ireland, but parishes of Methodists and Presbyterian parishioners also exist.
Differences in Terminology:
Afters (n): dessert
Alans or Alan Wickers(n): nickers; as in keep your alans on; calm down.
Ape (n): foolAra be whist (v): shut up
That's Arthur Guiness talking (phr): when someone is talking rubbish while under the influence
Aul Man or Fella (n): fatherAul Wan (n): mother
Away with ye / away on / Aye right (phr): I don't really believe you.
Bags (n): messy job also means plentyBake (n): face/mouthBaldy, as in "I haven't got a baldy" (phr): I haven't a clue
Bells (n): time, e.g. 10 Bells (10 o'clock)
Black (a): very crowded, busy - as in 'town was black!'
Blarney (n): nonsenseBlather (v): talkBleedin' deadly (a): brilliant
Bobble (v): to walk or to move somewhere
Buzzies (n): travelers
Cheek (n): Disrespect
Chips (n): french friesChiseller (n): young child
Cog (v): copy someone else's work at school
Covers (n): bedclothes
Cub (n): young boy
Dear (adj): expensive
Drink Link (n): a bank ATM
Eccer (n): homework (from exercises)
Flog (v): sellFlummoxed (a): puzzled
Gaff (n): house
Gas (a): funnyGasún (gossoon) (n): child
Guard (n): policeman
Holliers (n): holidays!
I am in me wick (phr): you must be joking!
Jo Maxi (n): taxi
Melted (a): very tired
Molly (n): effeminate
Pave (v): to rob something
Poppies (n): potatoes
Put a gap in the bush (phr): close the door
Putting it on the long finger (phr): putting it off, procrastinating
Scran (n): food
Scratcher (n): bed
Shift (n): kiss
Skin (n): friend
Snapper (n): child
Strand (n): beachStrides (n): trousers
Taig (n): catholic
Yoyo (n): euro
Communication Styles: Conversation and communication in Ireland is similar to the manner in which Americans converse, but several differences do exist. The most obvious difference is the brogue that Irish speaking individuals have. Other communication styles that are common in Ireland are answering questions with another question, and incorporating wit and humor into everyday conversation are also common. The use of witty phrases as expressions is common too.
School System Information
All Irish Schools in General
School Calendar: The school year/calendar in both private and public schools in Ireland are very similar. They typically run from September to June, with breaks in classes for Christmas and Easter.
Private/Public School:
Private schools:
Lately there has been a large number of private schools built in the South Dublin and Cork City area during the past few years. The Department of Education is responsible for paying teacher’s salaries, so the schools are able to spend between 4,000 to 6,000 Euro per student. These schools typically send a higher percentage of their students to university/college versus technical schools and work. The other major type of private school in Ireland is the "Gaelscoileanna" or Irish language schools. At these schools, all subjects are taught using Irish/Gaelic language. In recent years there has been increased interest in these all-Irish schools and they are a growing part of the educational mix.
Public schools:
Public schools in Ireland number many more than private schools. They are very similar to the private schools in terms of curriculum, assessment and calendar year. They are also very similar to American public schools. Subjects taught at Primary public schools in Ireland include, English, Irish Mathematics, Social & Environmental Studies, Arts & Crafts, Music, Physical Education. Secondary subjects may include Accountancy, Art, Biology, Business Organization, Chemistry, Civics, Commerce, Computer Science, Economics, Geography, History, Home Economics, Languages, Mechanical Drawing, Music, Physical Education and Physics.
Assessment: Assessment is the one thing that varies most dramatically in Irish schools as compared to American schools. Most Irish schools do not have final or regular assessments (tests) in primary grade classrooms. However, in secondary level of schooling, examinations become a very important part of school. The first three years of secondary school are called the Junior Cycle. During this cycle most students follow a common program for three years leading to the Junior Certificate examinations which can be taken at three different ability levels.” The next year is called a Transition Year. During this time, students follow a more relaxed schedule of classes. The final two years of secondary school are called the Senior Cycle. The senior cycle is of two years duration, and ends with the Leaving Certificate examinations. These also can be taken at three different ability levels. The higher level gives access to university and the ordinary and applied levels to more technical and vocational training.”
Special Education: The Irish special education system is currently undergoing a very unique dilemma. Ireland has traditionally been a poor country, but a recent burst in economic growth is helping it to grow and modernize. Most recently, large sums of money have been put into the special education system of many schools. This has led to a great number of special education teachers being hired, but they lack the appropriate training to effectively help their students. So the problem lies in that the teachers must first be educated before they can teach/help the special education students.
The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) estimates that 190,303 or 17.7% of children in Ireland are special needs. The following are estimates of which categories Irish special needs children fall into. Physical and sensory disabilities: 13,035. Intellectual/general learning disabilities: 20,597. Specific learning disabilities: 13,035. Intellectual/general learning disabilities: 20,597. Specific learning disabilities: 64,526. Autism Spectrum Disorders: 6,026. Mental Health difficulties: 86, 083.
Curriculum: The present primary school curriculum, which first came into operation in 1971, places an immense importance on being child centered rather than subject centered and allows for flexibility in timetabling and teaching methods. The language of instruction, apart from a handful of special schools, is English. The main subjects taught are English, Irish Mathematics, Social & Environmental Studies, Arts & Crafts, Music, Physical Education and Religious Instruction. Something unique about the Irish school systems curriculum is that most schools do not require or hold formal examinations at the end of the primary school cycle.
In addition to the core subjects of Irish, English and Mathematics, most schools also offer a wide range of subjects including Accountancy, Art, Biology, Business Organization, Chemistry, Civics, Commerce, Computer Science, Economics, Geography, History, Home Economics, Languages, Mechanical Drawing, Music, Physical Education and Physics; most of these are only offered in the secondary cycle for students.
In general, Irish education is overly book oriented, particularly at the primary level. This can sometimes be boring instead of intriguing, creative, exploratory, and even relevant. However, students who get through the system are generally ahead of their American and British counterparts.
Population: Estimated at 4,350,000 total (3.9 million in the Republic, 1.7 in Northern Ireland) last census in 2006. Young population; 37% under the age of 25.
Currency: The Republic uses the Euro; conversion rate is, 1 Euro = 1.32948 American dollars. The Euro comes in bills and coins. Bill increments are 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 Euro. Coins come in increments of 1 and 2 Euro, and 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents. Northern Ireland uses pounds. Pounds come in coins and bills as well. Coins come in increments of 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p, L1, and L2. Bills come in increments of L5, L10, L20, and L50. There are 100 pence (p) to a pound (L).
Capital: The City of Dublin, located on the Eastern coast, a metropolitan city with a population of approximately 505,739 people.
Airports: Ireland has four international airports (Shannon, Dublin, Cork, and Belfast), and seven regional airports (Derry, Donegal, Knock, Galway, Sligo, Waterford, Kerry). Largest is in Dublin; I will arrive and depart the country from this airport.
People: Ireland is a very young country in terms of age; the average age of its citizens is 34 years, male, 33.2 years, female, 34.8 years. The population growth rate is 1.15%. The birth rate is 14.45 births/1,000 population; the death rate is 7.82 deaths/1,000 population.
The Irish people have characteristics that are internationally recognizable. They are famous for their friendly humor and quick wit. Many Irish natives enjoy spending time with family and friends at local pubs, which is considered the “hub” of local social life. The Irish place a great importance on religion. It is a part of their everyday life from conversation, to politics, to work and play. It is a binder for many families, and communities.
The Irish are also famous for their hospitality, and open door policy. Many Irish are proud of their country and are eager to show it to outsiders who are interested in learning more about the Irish culture and history.
Being that Ireland is a very Catholic nation, many are fiercely pro-life and do not under any circumstances condone or believe in abortion. Many do not even wish to discuss it and it is a taboo topic in the country, the same is true for the topic of incest.
The country of Ireland as a whole has historically had a low domestic crime rate, with high rates of imprisonment for crimes. However, recent studies show that this domestic crime rate is rising.
Culture: The Irish people have a tremendously unique and interesting culture. Most people around the world are familiar with stereotypical forms of Irish instences, such as pots of gold at the end of rainbows, four leaf clovers, leprechauns, drinking pints of Guinness at local pubs, kissing the Blarney stone, and drinking more than enough green beer on St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin. These are all things that do to a certain extent define the Irish culture, but there is so much more to this nation of people.
For instance, the Irish are a people who are famous for their music and dance. Their unique blend of instrumentation and song create ballads unlike any other heard in the world. Their dances are reflections of their heritage. Both are an enormous part of the Irish people’s daily lives.
Sports are another large part of the Irish culture. Soccer, rugby, golf, equestrian sports, boxing, sailing, and rowing are all nationally recognized sports, which Irish individuals take part in and view regularly. Traditionally Irish people are known for their competitive spirit and strong will, so competition and athleticism are naturally a large part of the Irish culture.
Another large and very important part of the Irish people’s culture is their extremely close familial ties. Immediate as well as extended family is very important to the Irish people. Traditionally families are very close knit, they include a number of different generations and extensions are not uncommon. Not only do the Irish place high importance on family relationships, they also place great importance on friendships, many treat friends as family members, and go out of their way to visit, and keep in touch with others. The Irish are also known for their great hospitality, to both friends and travelers.
Traditionally Ireland is a very religious country. High importance is placed on attending mass, and prayer. Many Irish individuals also choose to enter the religious life in the form of priests, brothers, sisters and lay individuals; more so than in any other country around the world.
One of the most well known Irish stereotype, is that the Irish are a very superstitious culture. This is often misconstrued in that a large part of the Irish culture and history is folklore. Folklore consists of traditional stories and fables that are passed down from generation to generation, usually by word of mouth.
Finally, a very large part of Irish culture is their long history as a country. Irish people are very patriotic and take great pride in their country, culture and history.
Weather: The country as a whole has a temperate maritime climate. Due to its location in the Atlantic Ocean and its proximity to the Gulf Stream, Ireland has a very high annual rainfall, about 31 to 47 inches a year. About half of the days in a year the skies in Ireland are covered with clouds; and rain is likely during all times of the year. Wind is also very common in Ireland. The north and west coasts are the windiest places in the country. Ireland does not typically experience extremes in temperatures. The daily average temperature is 50 degrees F. The coldest winter months are January and February with temperatures ranging from 39 and 44 degrees F. Snow in winter is likely, more so in mountainous regions. The warmest summer months are July and August. Temperatures range from 64 and 66 degrees F. Sun is likely in spring and summer.
Language: The official language is Irish, a Celtic language. Most residents do speak and comprehend English, almost all speak it with an Irish brogue though.
Diversity of Culture: For decades Ireland was a very poor country that millions fled from in order to seek a better, more profitable life. So in the past, individuals coming into the country to live was extremely rare, this has led to very little cultural diversity in Ireland. Within the past three decades Ireland had been experiencing an economic and technological boom, this influx of opportunity and jobs has led to people choosing to move to Ireland for the first time in almost centuries. This is leading to grater diversity amongst the Irish population.
Traditionally, Ireland is referred to as a mono-culture, meaning that there is little ethnic and cultural diversity within its boarders. This mono-culture has led many individuals to become very comfortable with their own people and less than inviting to those of other cultures who immigrate to the country. Fortunately today there are various organizations who are seeking to breakdown the barriers and help Irish citizens become more comfortable with the fact that their country is slowly but surely becoming more diverse. One of these organizations is the National Action Plan Against Racism (NPAR). This organization has a five step process that helps individuals to accept diversity in their country more and more; the steps are: Protection, inclusion, provision, recognition, participation.
Political Conditions: The political relationship between The Republic and Northern Ireland has been somewhat shaky and unsettle to say the least. Many individuals tend to gloss over the clashes between Northern Ireland and the Republic “known as the troubles” as a conflict between the Catholics and Protestants. This conflict is much deeper than a religious issue. It involves economics, social and political issues as well. There is a clash in ideas and beliefs between the two parties, The Unionists (who want the status quo of union with Britain) as the Nationalists (who want Irish unity). The two parties were supposed to sit together in government and share power, this has been extremely difficult, and since 2002 the Unionists have refused to sit in government with the nationalists making governing the country anything but easy.
While “the troubles” were mostly quelled and considered over in 1998 by “The Good Friday Agreement” scuffles do still take place from time to time though. A rogue branch of the army called the Real IRA is still active in Ireland.
Religion: There is no official religion in Ireland; but the majority of residents (88%) are Catholic. The Catholic Church has four ecclesiastical provinces, each with its own archbishop, they are: Armagh, Dublin, Cashel and Tuam. They are all located in the north, east, south and west of the country, respectively. Each of these provinces consists of a number of dioceses; there are 27 total dioceses in all. The combined Catholic population of the Republic and of Northern Ireland is about 3.9 million people, approximately 92% in the Republic, and 40% in Northern Ireland. There are approximately 1,300 parishes served by about 4,000 priests. The rate of religious practice among Irish Catholics is one of the highest in the world. There are approximately 20,000 men and women in various religious orders of priests, brothers and sisters.
The Church of Ireland is a Protestant Episcopal Church. The Church is organized into twelve dioceses. The Archbishop of Armagh is the Primate of All Ireland. The General Synod holds chief legislative power over the church; this includes archbishops, bishops, 216 representatives of the clergy and 432 representatives of the laity.
The Roman Catholic Church and The Church of Ireland (protestant) are the two main religions in Ireland, but parishes of Methodists and Presbyterian parishioners also exist.
Differences in Terminology:
Afters (n): dessert
Alans or Alan Wickers(n): nickers; as in keep your alans on; calm down.
Ape (n): foolAra be whist (v): shut up
That's Arthur Guiness talking (phr): when someone is talking rubbish while under the influence
Aul Man or Fella (n): fatherAul Wan (n): mother
Away with ye / away on / Aye right (phr): I don't really believe you.
Bags (n): messy job also means plentyBake (n): face/mouthBaldy, as in "I haven't got a baldy" (phr): I haven't a clue
Bells (n): time, e.g. 10 Bells (10 o'clock)
Black (a): very crowded, busy - as in 'town was black!'
Blarney (n): nonsenseBlather (v): talkBleedin' deadly (a): brilliant
Bobble (v): to walk or to move somewhere
Buzzies (n): travelers
Cheek (n): Disrespect
Chips (n): french friesChiseller (n): young child
Cog (v): copy someone else's work at school
Covers (n): bedclothes
Cub (n): young boy
Dear (adj): expensive
Drink Link (n): a bank ATM
Eccer (n): homework (from exercises)
Flog (v): sellFlummoxed (a): puzzled
Gaff (n): house
Gas (a): funnyGasún (gossoon) (n): child
Guard (n): policeman
Holliers (n): holidays!
I am in me wick (phr): you must be joking!
Jo Maxi (n): taxi
Melted (a): very tired
Molly (n): effeminate
Pave (v): to rob something
Poppies (n): potatoes
Put a gap in the bush (phr): close the door
Putting it on the long finger (phr): putting it off, procrastinating
Scran (n): food
Scratcher (n): bed
Shift (n): kiss
Skin (n): friend
Snapper (n): child
Strand (n): beachStrides (n): trousers
Taig (n): catholic
Yoyo (n): euro
Communication Styles: Conversation and communication in Ireland is similar to the manner in which Americans converse, but several differences do exist. The most obvious difference is the brogue that Irish speaking individuals have. Other communication styles that are common in Ireland are answering questions with another question, and incorporating wit and humor into everyday conversation are also common. The use of witty phrases as expressions is common too.
School System Information
All Irish Schools in General
School Calendar: The school year/calendar in both private and public schools in Ireland are very similar. They typically run from September to June, with breaks in classes for Christmas and Easter.
Private/Public School:
Private schools:
Lately there has been a large number of private schools built in the South Dublin and Cork City area during the past few years. The Department of Education is responsible for paying teacher’s salaries, so the schools are able to spend between 4,000 to 6,000 Euro per student. These schools typically send a higher percentage of their students to university/college versus technical schools and work. The other major type of private school in Ireland is the "Gaelscoileanna" or Irish language schools. At these schools, all subjects are taught using Irish/Gaelic language. In recent years there has been increased interest in these all-Irish schools and they are a growing part of the educational mix.
Public schools:
Public schools in Ireland number many more than private schools. They are very similar to the private schools in terms of curriculum, assessment and calendar year. They are also very similar to American public schools. Subjects taught at Primary public schools in Ireland include, English, Irish Mathematics, Social & Environmental Studies, Arts & Crafts, Music, Physical Education. Secondary subjects may include Accountancy, Art, Biology, Business Organization, Chemistry, Civics, Commerce, Computer Science, Economics, Geography, History, Home Economics, Languages, Mechanical Drawing, Music, Physical Education and Physics.
Assessment: Assessment is the one thing that varies most dramatically in Irish schools as compared to American schools. Most Irish schools do not have final or regular assessments (tests) in primary grade classrooms. However, in secondary level of schooling, examinations become a very important part of school. The first three years of secondary school are called the Junior Cycle. During this cycle most students follow a common program for three years leading to the Junior Certificate examinations which can be taken at three different ability levels.” The next year is called a Transition Year. During this time, students follow a more relaxed schedule of classes. The final two years of secondary school are called the Senior Cycle. The senior cycle is of two years duration, and ends with the Leaving Certificate examinations. These also can be taken at three different ability levels. The higher level gives access to university and the ordinary and applied levels to more technical and vocational training.”
Special Education: The Irish special education system is currently undergoing a very unique dilemma. Ireland has traditionally been a poor country, but a recent burst in economic growth is helping it to grow and modernize. Most recently, large sums of money have been put into the special education system of many schools. This has led to a great number of special education teachers being hired, but they lack the appropriate training to effectively help their students. So the problem lies in that the teachers must first be educated before they can teach/help the special education students.
The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) estimates that 190,303 or 17.7% of children in Ireland are special needs. The following are estimates of which categories Irish special needs children fall into. Physical and sensory disabilities: 13,035. Intellectual/general learning disabilities: 20,597. Specific learning disabilities: 13,035. Intellectual/general learning disabilities: 20,597. Specific learning disabilities: 64,526. Autism Spectrum Disorders: 6,026. Mental Health difficulties: 86, 083.
Curriculum: The present primary school curriculum, which first came into operation in 1971, places an immense importance on being child centered rather than subject centered and allows for flexibility in timetabling and teaching methods. The language of instruction, apart from a handful of special schools, is English. The main subjects taught are English, Irish Mathematics, Social & Environmental Studies, Arts & Crafts, Music, Physical Education and Religious Instruction. Something unique about the Irish school systems curriculum is that most schools do not require or hold formal examinations at the end of the primary school cycle.
In addition to the core subjects of Irish, English and Mathematics, most schools also offer a wide range of subjects including Accountancy, Art, Biology, Business Organization, Chemistry, Civics, Commerce, Computer Science, Economics, Geography, History, Home Economics, Languages, Mechanical Drawing, Music, Physical Education and Physics; most of these are only offered in the secondary cycle for students.
In general, Irish education is overly book oriented, particularly at the primary level. This can sometimes be boring instead of intriguing, creative, exploratory, and even relevant. However, students who get through the system are generally ahead of their American and British counterparts.
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