MANY JUNIOR CERTIFICATE exams are likely to be replaced with portfolio-based assessments under new proposals being considered by the education minister Ruairí Quinn.

A new portfolio-based system that would focus on the completion of a piece of coursework, rather than repeated class tests, was “certainly on the cards”, a spokesperson for the Department of Education has confirmed to TheJournal.ie. The National Council for Curriculum and Assessment has suggested that the reforms would put greater emphasis on learning – rather than simply preparing for an exam.

As yet, however, the proportion of marks that would be allocated to exams and to coursework has not been decided upon. Some reports indicate that the a 50-50 split between exams and coursework, or a 60-40 split in favour of exams, are being considered.

What do you think – should exams matter less in the Junior Certificate?

Poll Results:

Yes, marks should be split 50/50 between exams and coursework (407)

Yes, but more than half of marks should be allocated for coursework (258)

No, the marking system is fine as it is (89)

No, there should be greater emphasis on exams (76)

Yes, marks should be split 50/50 between exams and coursework
Yes, but more than half of marks should be allocated for coursework
No, the marking system is fine as it is
No, there should be greater emphasis on exams

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Poll: Should exams matter less in the Junior Certificate?

Poll Results:

Read more: Exams likely to be downgraded in radical Junior Cert reforms>

Making a difference

A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.