Collaborative Initiatives for Promoting Computer Science in Secondary Schools

• Published in: Teaching Fundamental Concepts of Informatics Vol. 5941; pp. 100 - 111
• Main Authors: Glendinning, Irene, Low, Margaret
• Format: Book Chapter
• Language: English
• Published: Germany Springer Berlin / Heidelberg 2010; Springer Berlin Heidelberg
• Series: Lecture Notes in Computer Science
• Subjects: collaborative working ICT in schools; encouraging entry to computer science at HE level; ICT in schools; Informatics competitions in schools; Local initiatives for ICT; personal networking approach to ICT in schools; Professional body input to ICT in schools; Vertical interaction between tertiary and secondary education in ICT
• ISBN: 9783642113758; 3642113753
• ISSN: 0302-9743; 1611-3349
• DOI: 10.1007/978-3-642-11376-5_10

This paper presents a model for local collaborative working to support school teachers and their pupils in computer science. In the city of Coventry in the UK a network of representatives from various local government organizations, universities, professional bodies and schools has been working together for mutual advantage to organize and support initiatives that encourage and facilitate the teaching of computer science and information and communications technology in schools. Major events to date include a day conference, workshops and seminars for ICT teachers and a series of web design competitions for local schools. The paper discusses advantages and conflicts of a networking approach for improving understanding between different agencies working towards a common goal and concludes with plans for further collaborative ventures.