Pilot CS-STEM Workshops

Teachers in Bridge21 schools, and other selected teachers, are now invited to express interest in taking part in pilot versions of some of the workshops that will be rolled out across Ireland of the next 3 years.

Please use the options below to express your interest in attending the upcoming workshops. All sessions will be hands-on in nature and will be delivered using the Bridge21 learning model. The workshops will take place in our purpose designed learning space in Oriel House, Fenian Street, Dublin 2, which is located just off the main Trinity campus – (see map here).

If you have any queries please email jake@bridge21.ie

Available Workshops Oct/Nov 2013 – Computing

• Introduction to programming (Scratch 1: Introduction & Animation)
Scratch is a visual programming language developed by MIT which has become very popular in secondary schools. It uses a simple drag and drop, block based interface and is suitable for developing animations and games. This workshop is for those who are new to Scratch and also provides a quick introduction into algorithmic thinking (“how to think like a computer”) before delving into the production of a short multi-scene animation using Scratch. There are no pre-requisites for attendance.

• Intermediate programming (Scratch 2: Game design)
This workshop builds on the Scratch 1 workshop, and is centred on designing a multi-level game using Scratch. It will also explore the latest technologies that can be used to control the games developed in Scratch such as: Kinect, Leap and Makey Makey – (see https://sites.google.com/a/bridge21.ie/cs-stem/game-controllers). Participation in Scratch 1, or prior Scratch experience is a prerequisite.

• Computing and Computers (Raspberry Pi 1: Introduction)
The Pi is a very small self-contained computer which can be programmed with a variety of common languages including Scratch, Python and Java. It comes with a set of easily programmable interfaces which allow the Pi to be used to control other devices. This workshop provides an introduction into the world of computers and controllers. The workshop will focus on hands on activities with the Raspberry Pis and light electronics, buttons and game controllers. Programming will be primarily done in Scratch so attendance at Scratch 2, or extensive prior experience, with Scratch is a pre-requisite. There will be follow-on workshops offered at a later stage in advanced use of the Pi and the Python programming language.

Available Workshops Oct/Nov 2013 – Maths and Computational Thinking

• Contextual Mathematics (Project Maths and the Bridge21 model)
Research in TCD has developed a set of guidelines for the design of maths learning activities which are technology-mediated, contextualised and which resonant with a view of mathematics as a problem-solving activity in which students construct their own knowledge through the solution of real world problems. Attendees will be given the opportunity to participate as active learners in activities designed according to these principles and delivered using the Bridge21 methodology.
• ‘Probability and Plinko’, constructing a Plinko (Galton) board to statistically analyse the paths taken by marbles as they fall.
• ‘The Pond Filling Activity’, a hands-on exercise in problem-solving, estimation, area and volume.
• ‘The Human Catapult’, using video tracking and dynamic geometry to model the trajectory of a projectile.
• ‘Barbie Bungee’, using video tracking, spread sheets and dynamic geometry to investigate line of best fit and harmonic series.
This workshop is suitable for Junior and Senior cycle maths/applied maths/physics teachers.

• Computational Thinking
At the heart of all computer programming is the ability to “think like a computer”. This workshop looks at developing 21st century thinking skills such as problem solving, data visualisation, modelling real world problems and developing algorithms. Activities will be carried out which will show how these skills can be exercised and developed without the need to actually develop programs. There are no pre-requisites and attendance is strongly recommended for those who are keen to take the Scratch2 and Raspberry Pi workshops.