Module 06-30235 (2022)

The module is the implementation of the national Undergraduate Ambassador Scheme (UAS) by the School of Computer Science at the University of Birmingham. Its design follows closely the recommendations and guidelines of the UAS. The module will reward students with course credit for working as a student-tutor with teachers in local schools during semester 2 with training sessions during semester 1. Students should note that while the placements take place during semester 2, the training sessions are in semester 1. It is not possible to join this module without taking part in the training sessions.

Students will learn about the key issues affecting school education today. They will have the satisfaction of making a positive impact on the education of pupils of all ages and the chance to act as a role model for computer science. It is a chance to put something back into the community by sharing knowledge and helping to motivate young people and raise their aspirations towards computer science. They will develop confidence in answering questions about their own subject and in devising appropriate ways to communicate a difficult principle or concept. They will develop communication skills and gain a better understanding of their own level of expertise. For those of who are interested in teaching as a profession, this will be an opportunity to explore whether it is a path they want to pursue. They will learn to devise and develop computer science projects and teaching methods appropriate to engage the relevant age group. The module will involve: * Attending at 8 two-hour training sessions giving students an introduction to the fundamentals of working with children and conduct in the school environment. * Undergoing a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check prior to entering the classroom. * Working in pairs with a specific teacher at a local school. * Spending one full day a week in school for 9 weeks. * Designing and implementing an extra-curricular project (agreed with the teacher)

• Give students an opportunity to explore whether a career in teaching would be suitable for them.
• Offer an opportunity for students to develop transferable skills, especially in interpersonal communication.
• Support computer science teaching in local schools by injecting some cutting edge expertise.
• Exciting school pupils to take up computer science as a career.

1. demonstrate an understanding of the needs of individual learners in a computer science classroom
2. use standard teaching techniques
3. develop interpersonal skills, appreciate staff responsibilities and demonstrate communication skills
4. prepare lesson plans and teaching materials at an appropriate level
5. gain a deeper insight into a particular area of computer science education by working on an individual project
6. demonstrate an understanding of educational research as it pertains to Computer Science.

The training session for this module takes place in semester 1, the placements in semester 2.

• Main Assessments: Continuous assessment (100%)
• Supplementary Assessments: Continuous Assessment (100%) over the Summer period