THE JUNIOR Cert exam will continue in its current, much-criticised form for three more years.
One source said there was “no possibility’’ of the exam being postponed next June – in order to yield a saving of €30 million.
But education sources refused to comment on a Sunday Tribunereport this option was discussed recently in Cabinet.
The final Junior Cert exam is likely to be in June 2012, allowing current first years to complete the three-year cycle.
Discussions on a new style exam – with a greater focus on independent learning – will begin shortly.
A report due next month from the group which advises Minister for Education Batt O’Keeffe on exam issues will propose radical changes in assessment for 15 and 16-year-olds.
Earlier this year Mr O’Keeffe acknowledged the Junior Cert was “driven by rote learning and examination pressures, rather than the promotion of real understanding and skills”.
The exam, which replaced the Intermediate Certificate 20 years ago, was intended to broaden the educational experience of students. Over time the Junior Cert has become a mirror image of the Leaving Cert, giving little opportunity for independent learning.
The forthcoming discussion paper from the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA) is expected to back more continuous assessment and project work.
Earlier this year the NCCA said there was a perception of an inflexible, overcrowded curriculum in the Junior Cert and disengagement by many students.
Mr O’Keeffe wants a greater stress on assessment for learning; practical, project and portfolio assessment and self-directed learning.
Yesterday his spokesman said the Minister’s emphasis has been on improving and modernising the curriculum and on drawing on international best practice.
The Minister made it clear to the NCCA that he wants the junior cycle to be examined in its entirety and that it is a much broader issue than just the Junior Certificate exam.
The NCCA report due next month will form the basis for wider discussion on future policy.