Most second-level teachers say they will struggle to authenticate students’ Leaving Cert projects at a time when powerful artificial intelligence (AI) tools are available, according to a teachers’ union survey.
Under changes due to roll out from next September onwards, a range of Leaving Cert subjects will include additional assessments such as research projects worth a minimum of 40 per cent. These will be completed during fifth and sixth year.
The changes have sparked criticism among teachers’ unions who argue they pose a threat to education standards, fairness and quality.
Minister for Education Norma Foley, however, has said long-awaited changes aim to allow students show their talents, competencies and skills outside of the exam hall and ensure there is less pressure on exam day.
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Some 88 per cent of teachers said the new Leaving Cert assessments will create difficulties in relation to the authentication of students’ work, according to a poll of more than 2,700 Association of Secondary Teachers Ireland (ASTI) members.
The survey, conducted by Red D last November, also found that 82 per cent of respondents felt the new assessments will end up increasing students’ workload.
In addition, 70 per cent of ASTI members said the changes will increase stress among Leaving Cert students.
Teachers also say a variety of resources are needed to support teachers and schools before introducing the planned changes.
ASTI president Donal Cremin said the survey findings were an “alarm bell” for the new government and minister for education.
“Young people get one chance at the Leaving Cert and it is vital that any changes are fit for purpose,” he said.
“Teachers are telling us that there is a lack of knowledge and guidance on the use of AI and on the authentication of work submitted by students.
“These issues must be addressed before new additional assessment components are introduced for the Leaving Cert.”
Most subjects currently have additional forms of assessment. Between September 2025 and 2029, all subjects will be revised and will include research or demonstrations worth at least 40 per cent of marks.
Guidance for science subjects, for example, says students will produce an “in-practice investigation” involving research and experimentation, including a log with an “authentic account” of how students’ work unfolded.
Leaving Cert students will be permitted to use AI tools when preparing research projects, but will be obliged to reference their use or risk losing all marks.
Guidance for completing projects has been prepared by subject development groups at the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA), made up of between 50 to 70 per cent of practising teachers.
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