Computing Science in the Classroom: Experiences of a STEM Ambassador

Abstract

Computing Science is not a popular subject choice in UK secondary schools. Teachers complain of low numbers due to a lack of interest from parents and pupils. This unfortunate trend means the current education system will very likely fail to meet the skill needs of industry in the future, and it is unfortunate for a nation which has a long and proud history of innovation and technical expertise. In the following report we will reflect upon one of the authors’ (Gareth’s) experiences and observations as a STEM Ambassador (http://www.stemnet.org.uk/content/ambassadors/whoareambassadors) in a Scottish High School. We highlight the differences he observed between first and third year students. We reflect on his experiences, consider them in the light of the literature on creativity in schools and make some suggestions as to how the situation could be improved.

Keywords:

• secondary schools
• teaching
• creativity
• computing in schools