The process of curriculum change in the Irish national school system, 1868 to 1986

The National System of Education, 1831–2000

“…It was a theoretically impressive curriculum but among its weaknesses were a lack of consultation with teachers and inspectors at the drafting stage and failure to take account of the constraints, both physical and human, within the national school system of the period. 70 Inspector reports following 1900 71 and an evaluation of the system in 1903 by an English inspector, Mr. Dale, 72 report instances of implementation of the programme and a general improvement in learning atmospheres in schools, a wider variety of subjects being studied and improved methodologies. However, the overall vision, methodologies and content of the Revised Programme was realised in few schools.…”

Constructions of Childhood in Ireland in the Twentieth Century: A View from the Primary School Curriculum 1900–1999

“…However, the recession in the 1970s caused major cutbacks in spending on education. Moreover, many parents were confused by the new principles and ideologies underpinning the curriculum and there was inadequate communication with post-primary schools to ensure continuity in education upon transition (Hyland, 1987). While the New Child Care in Practice 265 Curriculum was introduced, it did not happen as quickly or as comprehensively as was hoped:…”