Sir, – Statistics this year show that just over half of students completed their courses in computer science and engineering (Carl O'Brien, "Is our obsession with degrees failing students?", Analysis, Education, March 29th).
Reasons for dropping out from college include financial, health, family or changing course.
Away from the firm structure of secondary education, new independent learning can become problematic for some students at third level. In many instances, the capability of the student is incompatible with the high academic requirements of the course and it can often be too late to benefit from any support available.
Third-level education is not for everyone. Glossy college prospectuses, college open days, peer pressure, high parental expectations, the idea of freedom from home and the fiction of a care-free life, as often portrayed in media, draw the student to college life, sometimes irrespective of school guidance to alternative career pathways.
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Fresh impetus is needed to give jobs arising outside the CAO process an equal standing that appeals to school-leavers.
Varied aptitude tests should become commonplace at senior level that motivate students and give them confidence to pursue courses that correspond with their specific skills and interests. Apprenticeships in all the diverse areas of work, and post-Leaving Cert courses, preferably combined with work experience, require greater promotion in schools and through media.
Far from having young people’s lives burdened with unnecessary stresses, we should do our utmost to ensure they can overcome life’s challenges, be in control of their capabilities and realise their true and full potential. – Yours, etc,
KEVIN McLOUGHLIN,
Ballina,
Co Mayo.