Science teachers are deeply invested in evidence-based research. Far from opposing reform, they had been begging for the science curriculum to be updated, but they want reform to be safe and fair. Photograph: istock/GettyThere are two enormous, glaring problems with the research recently published by the Irish Science Teachers Association (ISTA) about the new additional assessment components (AACs) in Leaving Cert science subjects. Watts, currently professor of education at Brunel University, London, has had a distinguished career deeply rooted in science education, curriculum development, and the professional accreditation of teachers. He is no stranger to Ireland, having worked closely with University College Cork for over 10 years as external examiner for the Bachelor of Science Education and Postgraduate Diploma in Education.

Source: The Irish Times March 01, 2026 14:20 UTC