Three in four pupils suffer exam stress

ALMOST three-quarters of secondary school students have cited exams as being a source of stress in school, while less than half felt they were satisfied with the availability of career guidance in their schools.

These are some of the findings in a new study, which took in the opinion of more than 3,000 students, who feel the teaching of maths, Irish, French, science, history and geography needs improvement.

The ‘So, how was school today?’ research is set to be launched today by Children’s Minister Katherine Zappone and Education Minister Richard Bruton.

The Comhairle na nÓg report, which took in the opinions of 3,242 secondary-school students, found exams were a large source of stressful feelings, with 67% of participants saying they ‘strongly agree’ and ‘agree’ that there is ‘too much emphasis’ on them in the school system.

When asked what contributes to feelings of stress in school, almost three-quarters – or 73% – said exams made them feel ‘very stressed’ and ‘quite stressed’.

A total of 62% students said the ‘pressure to complete difficult tasks’ left them feeling ‘very’ and ‘quite’ stressed.

Elsewhere, under half of students, 48%, were ‘very’ and ‘quite’ satisfied with the availability of career guidance in schools. While just 44% felt the same about the ‘availability of counselling/mental health supports’. Two-thirds said using IT helps them to learn, while 52% agreed and strongly agreed that their school has very good IT facilities.

The authors of the report said ‘teachers have high expectations for student learning and are encouraging of students in school’.

The report also stated that: ‘Students are very dissatisfied with the style of teaching used and with the way compulsory subjects are taught. In order of priority, students in all years are most dissatisfied with the teaching of maths, Irish and English.

‘There is a mismatch between how teachers teach and how students feel they learn best. Young people prefer active learning, but only 30% of students think their teachers make learning interesting and fun.

‘While students say their teachers generally support them, many students are dissatisfied with the kind of feedback they get, and do not think they can talk to their teachers about worries about falling behind. In general, students do not think their teachers treat all students fairly.’

The study also concluded that ‘girls tend to be less positive about their experience of school than boys are’.

‘Girls-only schools have higher levels of exam stress. The age and year level of students also influences their experience.’

Both ministers, in the foreword of the report, said: ‘The students in this survey have so much to say; and we must listen to them.’ Ms Zappone said: ‘It is really important for young people, teachers and Government parties to study and respond to this extensive piece of research as it explains what young people need, and want to change, to make their journey through education better.’