Computer Science students teach computer and web based skills in schools

Lecturers: Ciaran O'Leary and Paul Kelly

As part of the Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours) Degre students tEach computer Skills in DISC schools as part of the DISC) Dublin Inner-City Schools Computerisation) Programme.

In 2008/9 second year students taking a Web Development module developed and designed websites with second level students. Students also gave programming tutorials to second level students, and computer user tutorials to parents, mainly from local primary schools.

In 2008-9 and 2009-10 a selection of students also taught a 10 week course on computer game design to second year pupils. In 2008/9 The DIT students did not receive credits for this work, rather this course was intended to the focus their revision skills. They did receive creidts for thier work in 2009/10.

What do the students get?

This work is seen to prepare the student for industrial placement by providing them with an understanding of the problems, issues and opportunities afforded a software engineer in industry. As the students are in a ‘teaching’ role it helps them develop communication, interpersonal and leadership skills, drawing out the importance of these skills alongside the development of appropriate technical skills.

What does the community get?

Initially websites were developed for 25 inner-city schools. In later projects, senior cycle pupils in certain secondary schools were trained in the necessary skills to develop and maintain their school website. Second level students were also trained in programming and games development. These pupils were taught by third level students while attending classes on campus in the Dublin Institute of Technology. This served to introduce these pupils to third level education and allowed them to interact with undergraduate students. Additionally, parents of pupils in certain primary schools were introduced to popular online resources - such as YouTube, Bebo and GMail -  which could be used by their children in the future.

Community partners:

  • Scoil San Seamus CBS, James St
  • Rutland St. National School, Rutland St.
  • St. Enda's National School, Whitefriar St.
  • St. Columba's Special School for Travellers, Great Strand St.
  • Scoil Chaitriona CBS, Baggot St.
  • Scoil Mhuire's Iosaf, St. Marys Place
  • St. Marys Place Boy’s National School, St. Marys Place
  • Santa Maria CBS, Synge St.

 

Read Ciaran’s papers in the Resources section.