The Leaving Cert reform, which began last August, has sparked concerns among teachers and students alike. The reform, announced by the then education minister, Norma Foley, on Morning Ireland, has been met with mixed reactions. While some positive aspects, such as sample exam papers and increased funding, have been introduced, there are still significant challenges and potential drawbacks. The comparison of AI to Wikipedia, as mentioned by Arlene Forster, chief executive of the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment, is an apt analogy. Just as Wikipedia can be misused, AI, if not properly managed, can lead to plagiarism and unfair assessment practices. The reform's focus on coursework, with 40% of final marks allocated to it, raises fears about safety and the potential for students to use AI to generate content. Teachers are tasked with ensuring students do not succumb to these temptations and accurately identify AI-generated material, a challenge that may be difficult to overcome. The reform's long-term impact is a concern, as it risks widening the gap between schools with access to advanced facilities and those without. The review of the curriculum, assessment, and qualifications system in England supports the idea that externally set and marked exams are fairer and more reliable, particularly for disadvantaged students. Despite the challenges, teachers are expected to make this reform work, and it remains to be seen how effective it will be in the long run.
