What’s the Point

What’s the Point? Teachers Perspectives’ on the Incentive of Bonus Points for Studying Higher Level Mathematics

Abstract: In Ireland, a Bonus Points Initiative [BPI] was introduced in 2012 for mathematics. Through this initiative, any student who opts to study higher level mathematics receives an additional 25 CAO points on condition that they pass the Leaving Certificate examination. The main aim of this study is to investigate the benefits and challenges associated with the BPI from the perspective of mathematics teachers. This project commenced in January 2018 and questionnaires were distributed in April 2018. 800 teachers across 400 post-primary schools were targeted and 266 teachers responded. The data collected is currently being analysed by the research team.

Investigators/ Researchers: Dr Niamh O’Meara; Dr Mark Prendergast; Dr Paraic Treacy
Commencement Date: April 2018
End Date: December 2019