John Coolahan presentation

Developing the Teaching Force for a Global Economy: The Irish Policy Response

This presentation highlights changes required of the inherited pattern of schooling by circumstances of the global economy.  In this context it comments on the significance and timeliness of the OECD Report, Teachers Matter, Attracting, Developing and retaining Effective Teachers (2005).  The presentation then outlines the current profile of the teaching career in Ireland.  It is generally accepted that the Irish education system has been adaptable and relatively successful in relating to the needs of globalised economy which has been emerging.  Analysts and commentators consider that the nature of the education system has been a key factor in the emergence of the so-called “Celtic Tiger” economy.  However, policy on the teaching career continues to develop, and under a range of headings, the presentation identifies ongoing and emerging policy trends, some of them stimulated by the engagement with and outcomes of the Teachers Matter study.  It is recognised that a small, very-open economy can only thrive in the market conditions of the global economy if it has a high quality education system, which is both adaptable and responsive to the changing needs of individuals and society.  A quality teaching force is a sine qua non for such an education system.  Hence, the degree of priority, which is accorded to protecting, sustaining and developing the teaching career in Ireland.