20 Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community TechSpace Report Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community | TechSpace Report
TechSpace, a programme managed by Camara Education Ireland empowers educators in all learning spaces to be creative with technology in order to broaden skills, aspirations and opportunity for young people. www.camaraireland.ie
Camara Education Ireland is a non-profit social enterprise with a vision of an Ireland where all young people have the skills to realise their potential and confidently create their future.
Camara Education, Unit 3 The Guinness Enterprise Centre, Taylors Lane, Dublin 8 Phone:+353 (0)1 65 22 665 Email: [email protected] www.camara.org
2 Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community TechSpace Report 20 20
Contents 01 02 P. 6 P. 10 Introduction to Clár Milestones Achieved TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community 03 04 P. 38 P. 44 Training and What have we learnt Resource in 2020? Development in 2020 05 06 P. 62 P. 68 Future Thinking for In Conclusion Clár TechSpace 01 — Introduction to Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community | TechSpace Report
8 01 | Introduction 01— 01 | Introduction Introduction This document outlines the impact of the Clár TechSpace and STEAM in the Travelling Community project in the year of 2020.
Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community is a project that is supported by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media and Science Foundation Ireland. It brings together the best of Ireland’s youth work and education sectors to develop an innovative programme that empowers professional teachers, voluntary youth workers and family support staff to embed TechSpace Activities through their native language Gaeilge & CANT whilst developing 21st Century skills in their work with young people.
The programme will bring STEAM, Computer Science & Digital Creativity education to 700 Educators, impacting approximately 15,000 young people across Ireland by the end of 2021. TechSpace is an education programme of Camara Education Ireland. TechSpace offers training, development, support and opportunities for youth organisations and schools to deliver STEAM and Digital Creativity projects. Camara Education Ireland is a non-profit social enterprise with a vision of an Ireland where all young people have the skills to realise their potential and confidently create their future. Background
Clár TechSpace has evolved from a programme grounded in non-formal education in the youth sector and expanded nationally through Irish into Irish speaking contexts supported by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media.
The Department of an Gaeltacht have been supporting Clár TechSpace since January 2015, as part of an ongoing partnership with Camara Ireland to deliver on the Straitéis 20 Bliain don Ghaeilge.
In 2020, Science Foundation Ireland joined the partnership to become co- sponsors for the Clár TechSpace Programme and added a new development entitled STEAM in the Travelling Community. This was to recognise the culture and language considerations of integrating STEAM and technology into educational opportunities for young people from the Travelling Community.
9 Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community | TechSpace Report 02 —
10 01 | Introduction Milestones Achieved Milestones Achieved
11 02— Milestones Achieved
Partnerships
A fundamental element to the Clár TechSpace Programme and STEAM in the Travelling Community project is working in affiliation with key schools, youth organisations and educators across Ireland.
This ensures that there is a local and equipped support network available for educators and young people. The long term sustainability and success of STEAM and Digital Creativity education relies on embedded partnership and practice in the work of all Irish Language youth organisations, schools and Travelling Community Youth Services of Ireland.
Key partnerships have been established and developed with the following organisations. 02 | Milestones Achieved 01 | Introduction
List of Organisations involved in Clár TechSpace
Mean Scoileanna Bunscoileanna Clubanna Óige
Cumann na bhFiann Baile na Manach Óg Baile Coláiste Acla Gaelscoil na Mí Átha Cliath – Scoil Lorcáin Aoine 6-7.30 Cumann na bhFiann Baile na Manach Sean Baile Gaelcholáiste Mhuire A.G. Gaelscoil na Ríthe Átha Cliath – Scoil Lorcáin Aoine 7.30 - 9 Cumann na bhFiann Cluain Tarbh Óg Baile Átha Coláiste Ghobnatan Scoil Uí Ghramhnaigh Cliath – Halla Naomh Gabriel Aoine 6-7.30 Cumann na bhFiannCluain Tarbh Sean Baile Átha Gaelcholáiste Choilm Gaelscoil Áine Cliath – Halla Naomh Gabriel Aoine 7.30 - 9 Cumann na bhFiann Glasnaíon Óg Baile Átha Coláiste Iognáid Gaelscoil Bhaile Brigín Cliath –Our Lady of Delours Céadaoin 7.30 - 9 Glasnaíon Sean Baile Átha Cliath –Our Lady of Coláiste Naomh Eoin Gaelscoil Bhrian Bóroimhe Delours Céadaoin 7.30 - 9 Leamcháin, Baile Átha Cliath Bunscoil Naomh Gaelcholáiste Mhaigh Nuad Gaelscoil Chnoc Liamhna Thomás Céadaoin 7 – 8.30 Rath Fearnáin Óg, Baile Átha Cliath – Scoil Nao- Gairmscoil Fheichín Naofa Gaelscoil Choláiste Mhuire mh Padraig Aoine 7.15 - 8.45 Rath Fearnáin Sean, Baile Átha Cliath – Scoil na Scoil Chuimsitheach Chiaráin Gaelscoil Cholmcille mBuachaillí Aoine 7.30 - 9 Coláiste an Eachréidh Gaelscoil Eiscir Riada Dún Bóinne, Co. na Mí. Gaelscoil Luan 7 – 8.30 Stigh Lorcáin Óg, Baile Átha Cliath – Bunscoil Coláiste Chroí Mhuire gan Smál Gaelscoil Laighean Naomh Raphaela 6 – 7.30 Stigh Lorcáin Sean, Baile Átha Cliath - Bunscoil Coláiste Ghlór na Mara Gaelscoil na Camóige Naomh Raphaela 7.30 - 9 Gaelcholáiste Reachrainn Gaelscoil na Giúise Feachtas - Baile Munna Coláiste Mhuire Gaelscoil Naomh Pádraig Feachtas - Tamhlacht Coláiste de hÍde Gaelscoil Ros Eo Bunchlub Cúil Aodha (Muintearas) Scoil Chaitríona Gaelscoil Shliabh Rua Comharchumann Mhúscraí Scoil Phobail Mhic Dara Gaelscoil Thaobh na Coille Club Óige an tSuláin Gaelcoláiste Cheatharlach Scoil an tSeachtar Laoch Paístí Cois Mara, Ionad a Phobail Coláiste Pobail Osraí Scoil Chrónáin Club Óige Chríost Rí, Oileán na nÓg Gaelcholáiste Mhaigh Nuad Scoil Náisiúnta an Ghleanna Meitheal Pleanála Teanga an Iar-thuaiscirt Gaelcholáiste na Mara Scoil an Ghleanna Ionad Naomh Padraig, Dore Coláiste Dhún Masc Scoil Dhún Chaoin (SN Naomh Gobnait) Maghery Band Terence McSweeney Community Scoil Iognáid Rís Foróige Galway Youth Cafe College Pobalscoil Ghaoth Dobhair Scoil Mhaolchéadair Ógras Pobalscoil Na Rosann Scoil Mhichil Naofa Comharchumann Forbartha Chorca Dhuibhne Scoil Chuimsitheach Cholmcille Scoil Náisiúnta Chillín Liath Mol Teic/Dingle Creativity & Innovation Hub Pobalscoil Chloch Ceann Fhaola (S) Scoil Naomh Eoin Baiste Muintearas
13 Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community | TechSpace Report
Mean Scoileanna (42) Bunscoileanna (66) Clubanna Óige ( 35)
Coláiste Ailigh Gaelscoil Nás Na Ríogh Ógras Maigh Cuilinn Coláiste Phobail Cholmcille, Tory Gaelscoil Ruairí Ógras Mumhan Gairmscoil Chú Uladh, Cloghan Gaelscoil an Inbhir Mhóir Muintearas Mumhan Gairmscoil Mhic Diarmada Gaelscoil an Chaisleáin TUSLA - Foróige Family Support Coláiste Cholmhchille Gaelscoil an Ghoirt Álainn Club Óige na nDéise (CF na nDéise) Gairmscoil Éinne Gaelscoil Charraig Uí Leighin Comhlucht Forbartha na nDéise Coláiste Íde Gaelscoil Chionn tSáile Comhlacht Forbartha Inis Meáin Pobalscoil Chorca Dhuibhne Gaelscoil Droichead Na Banndan Spleodar go Náisúinta Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí Gaelscoil Pheig Sayers Spleodar Beal Easa Meánscoil Gharman Gaelscoil Uí Ríordáin Spleodar Cora Droma Ruisc Gaelcholáiste Chomáin Scoil Abán Naofa Spleodar An Uaimh Coláiste na bPiarsach Scoil na nÓg Spleodar Cabhan Coláiste na Coiribe Gaelscoil Bhun Cranncha Spleodar Caislean Cnucha Meánscoil San Nioclás Spleodar Dun Laoghaire Gaelcholaiste Charraig Uí Leighin Scoil Bhríde, Mín an Chladaigh Spleodar Longfort Scoil Chonaill, Spleodar Guaire Scoil Náisiúnta An Chaisil, Spleodar An Mhuileann gCearr Scoil Náisiúnta Éadan Fhionnfhraoich Spleodar An tAonach Scoil Naomh Dubhthaigh Spleodar Ath Luain Scoil Naomh Olibhéar Pluincéid Scoil Chamuis Scoil Éinne Scoil Fhursa Scoil Iognáid Scoil na bhForbacha Scoil Uí Cheithearnaigh SN Rónáin Scoil na gCeithre Máistrí Gaelscoil Chluainín Gaelscoil Inis Córthaidh Gaelscoil Moshíológ Gaelscoil Chaladh an Treoigh SN Pholl a tSómais SN Cheathrú Thaidhg Scoil Náisiúnta Bhaile Mhic Airt Scoil Náisiúnta na Rinne Gaelscoil de hÍde Gaelscoil Chnoc na Ré Gaelscoil Na Laochra
14 02 | Milestones Achieved 01 | Introduction
List of Organisations Involved in STEAM in The Travelling Community 2020
Foróige Blanchardstown Clubhouse
Tusla FS Education Welfare Officer Tusla
Carlow Youth Service Southside Travellers Organisation
Western Traveller & Intercultural Exchange House Ireland National Travellers Development Center Service Youth Work Ireland Jigsaw Galway
Galway Traveller Movement Involve: National Association of Travellers’ Centres National Traveller Women’s Forum Ireland Youthreach Programme - Education, training, and work Galway & Roscommon ETB - VTOS - Tuam Key Progress Indicators and Deliverables This programme has set out six key outputs in order to achieve the goal of bringing STEAM, Computer Science & Digital Creativity education to 700 Educators, impacting approximately 15,000 young people across Ireland by the end of 2021. as below:
Output 1 • Embed the language of STEM in Gaeltacht areas nationally. • Introduce the language of STEM to the Travelling community nationwide. Output 2 • Increase the number of teachers and youth workers with improved knowledge, skills and confidence to deliver Coding and STEM activities with young people in the Gaeltacht. • Increase the number of youth workers with improved knowledge, skills and confidence to deliver Coding and STEM activities with young Travellers. Output 3 • Increase the number of teachers and youth workers with improved knowledge, skills and confidence to deliver Digital Media activities with young people in the Gaeltacht. • Increase the number of youth workers with improved knowledge, skills and confidence to deliver Digital Media activities. Output 4 • Increase the number of Coding and STEM activities designed and delivered to young people in the Gaeltacht and young Travellers nationwide. • Increase the attendance of young people and Travellers nationwide at showcase events to recognise their achievements and connect to a wider STEM community. Output 5 • Increase recognition of the importance of cultural translation in widening access to and interest in STEM. Output 6 • Embed the language of Digital Media in Gaeltacht areas.
15 Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community | TechSpace Report
Output 1 Embed the language of STEM in Gaeltacht areas nationally. Introduce the language of STEM to the Travelling Community nationwide.
Activity: Resource End of Project Target Status Update Development Key Progress Indicator
• STEM Educational Resources Development Gaeilge translated from the TechSpace programme into Irish. • 30 Comprehensive and living ‘Stíl an Tí’ • 15 Comprehensive and living ‘Stíl guides in Computer Science. an Tí’ guides in Computer Science • Training programmes designed and developed to embed creative learning 4 Training Programmes Designed • 5 training programmes designed approaches to STEM through Irish. - STEAM in Primary School • STEAM in the Travelling Community - Digital Media Audio • Engagement of Travelling Community Production and Gaeloideachas Community in Computer Science as Gaeilge - Computer Science as Gaeilge needs analysis. -Trainings Developed as Training to be developed and delivered Gaeilge for delivery online • Training programmes designed and in Irish. -CS Training 1: Computer developed to embed STEM learning Science 1 developed for into the Traveller Community and • CS Training 1: Computer Science 1: online use : MakeyMakey, Gaeloideachas Community of Ireland. Introduction to Scratch & CS First Scratch, Skritbots & CS First • CS Training 2: Computer Science 2: CS -CS Training 2: Computer & BBC Microbit Science 2: CS & BBC Microbit • CS Training 3: Computer Science 3: -CS Training 3: Computer Raspberry Pi - Development Science 3: Raspberry Pi - Development STEAM 2 as Gaeilge CANT Develop STEAM Training Development (STEAM 2) - An opportunity for • 2 x Needs analysis educators to progress as part of the • STEAM in the Traveling program - based on feedback from Community STEAM Educator Council (Learning Network Meetings) & Creative Consultants Council. (Comhairle Teic na nÓg)
STEAM in the Travelling Community
2 x Needs analysis 1 x training programme
16 02 | Milestones Achieved 01 | Introduction Output 2 Increase the number of teachers and youth workers with improved knowledge, skills and confidence to deliver Coding and STEM activities with young people in the Gaeltacht. Increase the number of youth workers with improved knowledge, skills and confidence to deliver Coding and STEM activities with young Travellers. Activity: Training and End of Project Target Status Update Support Key Progress Indicator
• % of participants complete training. • 700 educators from Irish Speaking and • 456 educators trained 361 of Gaeltacht educational institutes. which were trained in 2020. • % self reported increase on knowledge skills and confidence. • 247 educational institutes. • 149 amount of education institutes, 81 of which were • % of participants engaged with • 50 people from the Travelling trained in 2020. Community of Practice. Community Participated. • 15 Organisations, 20 educators who took part in Needs Analysis for STEAM in Travelling Community. Output 3 Increase the number of teachers and youth workers with improved knowledge, skills and confidence to deliver Digital Media activities with young people in the Gaeltacht. Increase the number of youth workers with improved knowledge, skills and confidence to deliver Digital Media activities.
Activity: Training and End of Project Target Status Update Support Key Progress Indicator
• 456 educators trained 361 of • % of participants complete training • 700 educators from Irish Speaking which were trained in 2020 and Gaeltacht educational institutes • % self reported increase on knowledge trained. • 149 amount of education skills and confidence institutes, 81 of which were • 247 educational institutes • % of participants engaged with trained in 2020 Community of Practice • 50 Educators from the Travelling • 15 Organisations, 20 educators Community community resources who took part in Needs participate Analysis for STEAM in the • Development and continues upkeeping Travelling Community of Clár TechSpace Online Community • Carried out some of Practice redevelopment of the • 15000 young people who speak irish community of practice & partnership to enhance • 200 young people from the Travelling capability. Further work to be Community undertaken on the Community of Practice in 2021. • 8500 young people who speak Irish • Training in STEAM in the Travelling Community commencing January 2021
17 Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community | TechSpace Report Output 4 Increase the number of Coding and STEM activities designed and delivered to young people in the Gaeltacht and young Travellers nationwide. Increase the attendance of young people and Travellers nationwide at showcase events to recognise their achievements and connect to a wider STEM community. Activity: Resource End of Project Target Status Update Deployment and Events Support Key Progress Indicator • % of participants who deliver STEM • 15,000 young people • 8500 young people who speak programmes within 1-3-6 months post Irish • Computer Science and Clár TechSpace training • Computer Science and Clár is represented at two large nationwide TechSpace is represented at • # of young people educators are events that invite over 500 young people two large national events that working with through TechSpace fluent in Irish to showcase their projects at invite over 500 young people - Tech Féile • # of young people attending and who speak Irish to showcase - Creative Tech Fest Bi-lingually exhibiting at showcase events their projects at
Tech Féile • Tech Féile took place on March 4th 2020, at Shannon Airport, and celebrated the work of young people, youth workers and teachers who have participated in their local TechSpace – showcasing digital creativity projects, engineered inventions and scientific inspirations to inspire future generations. • 390 Young People attended • 38 TechSpace Educators • 17 Youth Organisations and Schools from the TechSpace Network • 12 STEAM workshops • 15 Digital Creativity workshops • 4 Computer Science workshops
ESB Creative Tech Fest Bi- lingually: • 1000 Virtual & Augmented Reality Party packs delivered • 55 Youth Organisations & Gaelscoileanna took part • 20 Counties in Cities & Rural locations were represented • 689 young people viewed an online bilingual live award ceremony 1.5 hour • 5 Inspirational Guest speakers in the field of STEM • 1 Stakeholder Tour • 158 Youth Project Entries • 20 Award Categories across CS, Digital Creativity & STEAM • 6 TechSpace Monthly Awards • 1 National Virtual Reality Gallery • 1 VR Scavenger Hunt for Young People
18 02 | Milestones Achieved 01 | Introduction Output 5 Increase recognition of the importance of cultural translation in widening access to and interest in STEM.
Activity: Increase End of Project Target Status Update recognition of language • Media partners TG4 and RTE actively • Engaged TG4 & cultural importance engaged. • Regular interviews on Radio na • 5 Pop-Up Blaiseadh Tech Sessions Gaeltachta • Increased awareness and engagement in Gaeltacht regions during Science • Partnership development with from key stakeholders Week Radio na Gaeltachta for next • Participation with and interest from year key stakeholders • Initial talks with After School • Local partners engaged and distributed Hub on content information on their industry at key • 16 pop up Blaiseadh Tech TechSpace Network events. Sessions in Gaeltacht regions during Science Week - 400 Young People Facilitated • Filmed 4 Impact Stories, Athenry, Inis Meáin Carna & Kerry, • Filmed Campa Cúla 4 • 1000 packs sent including 15 Activities. TG4 and the Department issued crossposting campaign on Social Media. • 3 Activities videos filmed Output 6 Increase the number of teachers and youth workers with improved knowledge, skills and confidence to deliver Digital Media activities with young people in the Gaeltacht. Increase the number of youth workers with improved knowledge, skills and confidence to deliver Digital Media activities.
Activity: Resource End of Project Target Status Update Development Key • Development of Digital Media 2 - An Digital Media Training for opportunity for educators to progress Secondary School Teachers & Progress Indicator as part of the program - includes Youth Workers translation. • Development of Digital Media 2 - • Digital media educational resources • Develop 3rd Digital Media Training An opportunity for educators to developed for the Clár TechSpace (Digital Media 3) - An opportunity progress as part of the program programme into Irish. for educators to progress as part of - includes translation - Complete • Training programmes designed and the program, and will be based on in Audio Production developed to embed creative learning feedback from Digital Media Educator • Development of Digital Media 3 approaches to Digital Media through Council & Creative Consultants - An opportunity for educators Irish. Council. to progress as part of the • Engagement of community in Needs Primary Schools Training program, based on feedback Analysis. • Development of Primary Schools 2 from Educators feedback & includes translation Creative Consultants Council. - Due to be completed in 2021 Primary Schools Training • Development of 2nd Primary Schools Training - includes translation - Due to be completed in 2021
19 Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community | TechSpace Report Covid 19 Response The Clár TechSpace team rapidly responded to the needs of young people and educators when the Covid-19 Pandemic and the lockdown measures transpired across Ireland.
Training and deliverables were converted to facilitate an online and blended learning approach to STEM educatiotn for educators. 27 1K 72 Youth Organisations received Youth Kits were delivered to Múinteoir Bunscoile were TechSpace kits for young people young people in Gaeltacht Areas, trained in a new STEAM including STEM, Computer with online training provided and Training- as Gaeilge- through Science and Digital Media video resources available through blended learning during Level 5 contents. social media on home based restrictions. STEAM learning activities. 13 2 Existing educators in Ireland were online STEM sessions with Creative Consultant Meetups took place online supported by local coordinators educators were completed whereby young people who were championing through phone consultation and nationally from April - June 2020. TechSpace activities through Irish, in the field of online check in’s as regards any Computer Science, were consulted on the shape support, needs or resources they of the programme and supported to develop required during that time. workshops for the TechSpace Network.
Youth organisations working with young people from the Travelling Community were invited to collaborate in an online steering group and a needs analysis process was implemented remotely.
Initially in May 2020, The TechSpace team met with: 1K 689 Bilingual ESB Creative Tech Fest young people (including 350 from Party Packs were delivered to Gaeltacht areas) logged in from over 51 organisations across home or attended local zoom Ireland. calls with youth workers and educators on the 28th of October 2020 to view a youth award ceremony and tour a national virtual reality ESB Creative Tech Fest exhibition gallery. Science Teacher Helen Ní Chríodáin from 51Cluster Coordinators to establish Coláiste Naomh Eoin in Inis Meáin was the challenges faced by youth named ESB TechSpace Educator of The Year workers and Gaelscoileanna in order for them to meet the needs for her work on supporting young people to of young people. participate.
20 02 | Milestones Achieved 01 | Introduction
Steam in the Travelling Community Needs Analysis
In 2020 Camara staff conducted a needs analysis with 40 staff members across 15 youth organisations working with young Travellers. The needs analysis is intended to inform the development of the training for this project and to promote a sustainable approach to engage in STEAM education with young people.
Representatives were asked for their advice and experience on what works best when engaging young Travellers. Specifically, what engagement styles are currently most effective, what approaches are best avoided and how they feel we could improve on our delivery approach in response to young Traveller needs. The stakeholder forum sessions provided valuable feedback from educators.
21 Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community | TechSpace Report
Key questions asked: 1. What resources are available to staff, volunteers and young people in the Travelling Community at the moment, what makes some work and others not?
2. What training approaches are most effective with staff, volunteers, and young people in the Travelling Community?
3. What are the main enablers and barriers in delivering programs to young Travellers?
4. What did educators feel were the main barriers to progressively running in-house programs following training?
5. Based on the educators’ experience of working with Travellers, what delivery methods were most effective when delivering training to young Travellers. What specifically needs to be taken into account when designing the training eg. literacy needs, learning and behaviour styles?
6. How could the young Travellers benefit most from the training we deliver to educators?
22 02 | Milestones Achieved 01 | Introduction
Findings include:
Strengths Weaknesses • A positive response received from educators and • Lack of access to IT equipment and the internet. additional ideas contributed for project content • Confidence and skill of trainers unfamiliar with and design. STEAM. • Development of soft skills including • A “one size fits all” approach is not effective. collaboration, teamwork, leadership and communication skills. • Complement current learning, for instance, building the project into the curriculum through a General Education Task in Leaving Certificate Applied. • STEAM training poses an opportunity for educators to support young Travellers to be creative and resourceful while learning about the sciences. • STEAM training supports the Constructivist pedagogical approach to learning which may appeal to young Travellers who are reported to be predominantly kinesthetic learners.
Opportunities (Goals) Threats • An opportunity to introduce educators working • Holding the interest of young Travellers; young with young Travellers to STEAM. Traveller men and women and taking account of • Very beneficial for young people to explore their 21st century skills within the training. natural tendency to be creative and resourceful. • Access to resources, equipment, materials for • Positive interest from educators. Recycling and educators to maintain momentum within the repurposing is of particular interest to educators project. given its relevance today. • Staffing / staff ratio for training delivery to young • Giving young Travellers the recognition they Travellers deserve for their efforts and achievements • A poor standard of literacy could make it difficult featured strongly among the feedback given. for some young people.
23 Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community | TechSpace Report
Key Points from the Needs Analysis:
1. Lack of access to equipment and internet This is a big issue for young Travellers and could impact on the sustainability of the project. It is important to focus on activities that don’t require specialised equipment to maximise engagement where access to connectivity and equipment is an issue.
2. Confidence and skill of educators
The current confidence and experience of educators in STEAM activities should be considered in design of training and support. Participants should be supported after training in delivery of STEAM in their work to ensure best outcomes for young people. It was felt that confidence would increase when participants knew support was available from project staff.
3. Tailoring the content
Activities and programmes should be adaptable to suit individuals and groups depending on their own knowledge, skills and interests. Participants on training should be encouraged to explore ways to adapt the activities to suit the young people they work with. This can be supported by project staff through advice and contact after training.
4. Comprehension
Training delivery should be clear and concise to ensure that participants understand and can confidently facilitate activities with young people. According to feedback from one educator ‘start from the basics...’.
24 02 | Milestones Achieved 01 | Introduction
Conclusion on needs analysis Sustainability Sustainability is a key consideration for the success of this project. Peer-to- peer and self-directed learning of participants should play a part in building that sustainability. This could be fostered and encouraged through involvement in the wider TechSpace Network. Positivity There appears to be a feeling of positivity about STEAM education with young people and this is supported by discussion and ideas (e.g. recycling activities, etc.) from the educators that were involved in the needs analysis. Input It is vital to have input from educators working with young Travellers as they are aware of potential barriers to learning and the interests of the young people. Fundamentals Introducing the fundamentals of STEAM learning should be the focus of the training. Activities should be tangible, transferable and allow for springboarding and follow-on exercises.
25 Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community | TechSpace Report
The TechSpace Network Clár & STEAM in the Travelling Community - Camara Ireland Team
Orlaith Oifigeach Tionascadail Jen Blainisteoir Clár TechSpace Jules Oifigeach Oideachas Karen Director of TechSpace Operations Eddie Gaillimh Oifigeach TechSpace Oideachas Báile Átha Cliath Paul Comhordatheoir Ríomhéolaíocht Jamie Oifigeach Oideachas Séamus Comhordatheoir TechSpace Adele Oifigeach Oideachas
Camara Ireland staff have responsibility for the development and delivery of training content, supporting trained TechSpace educators, youth organisations and schools. Camara Ireland produces two annual events nationally, Tech Féile and the Creative Tech Fest.
26 02 | Milestones Achieved 01 | Introduction
Cluster Coordinators Nationally
Kay STEAM in the Travelling Múintearas Community
Maitís Dáire & Jeaic Laighin Uladh
Involve Síomha Aoife Foróige Conradh Báile Átha Connacht na Gaeilge Cliath
Orla Comharchumann Eva Ciarraí Forbartha Corcaigh Chorca Dhuibhne Foróige
The Cluster Coordinators employed by local regional Gaeltacht and youth development organisations promote the project at local level.
It is the responsibility of the Cluster Coordinators to develop relationships with local organisations and create links to local peer network community support. They recruit staff and volunteers for training and provide support and information to the new TechSpace sites in their area.
27 Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community | TechSpace Report
How do we support youth workers and staff?
Once educators are trained they become part of the Clár TechSpace Network. Through the network, educators can access ongoing support from Camara Ireland and Partner Organisations to help them in facilitating TechSpace activities in their schools, clubs and projects. This can be in the form of general advice on material and ideas to engage young people or in equipment or hardware support.
28 02 | Milestones Achieved 01 | Introduction The TechSpace Online Network Educators can now sign up to the TechSpace online network. The TON is an online platform where they can search for activities, share new ideas and find out information about the work of other groups and services in the network. Camara Ireland staff maintain the online network and are available for support and advice centrally through Irish and English.
29 Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community | TechSpace Report
Events Tech Féile 2020
Tech Féile took place on March 4th 2020, at Shannon Airport, and celebrated the work of young people, youth workers and teachers who have participated in their local TechSpace – showcasing digital creativity projects, engineered inventions and scientific inspirations to inspire future generations.
30 02 | Milestones Achieved 01 | Introduction
390 38 390 Young People TechSpace Educators Attended 17 12 Youth Organisations STEAM Workshops and Schools from the TechSpace Network 15 4 Digital Creativity Computer Science Workshops Workshops
31 Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community | TechSpace Report Gradaim:
Members of the TechSpace Network exhibited projects which were awarded with over 12 Tech Féile awards, covering STEAM, digital creativity, group projects, individual projects and educator’s contribution. TechSpace
Gradam d’Oideachasóir na Bliana Gradaim Tech Spásóir na Bliana Stephen / Corcaigh Dara Ó Cualáin / Scoil Phobal Mhic Dara
Gradaim Athchúrsáil & Teic Adam ó Bruadair & Roman Ó Deaghaidh / Gaelcholáiste Cheatharlach Computer Science
Códóir is Fearr Coincheap is Fearr Feidhlm Ó Cualáin / Scoil Chuimsitheach Keon Ó Donnchú / Coláiste Dhún Masc Chiaráin
32 02 | Milestones Achieved 01 | Introduction Digital Creativity
An Táirgeadh Fuaime is Fearr An Grianghraf is Fearr Caoimhe Ní Bhroin, Doireann Ní Icí Tadhg Ó Múrchú / Meánscoil Gharman Meanscoil san Nioclás
Físeán is Fearr Físeán Ceol Gaelcholáiste Reachrann Lig Dom Imeacht - Dris-Óg / Coláiste Chroí Mhuire gan Sma STEAM
STEM is fearr STEMbassadóir Thomás, Shane, Sean, Sophie, Callum, Craig, Coláiste Naomh Eoin Jamie, Erin, Ruby, Karl Terence McSwiney
Eitleán is Fearr Inis Meáin
33 Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community | TechSpace Report
Scéalta ó na Buaiteoirí Dara has become embedded in the TechSpace programme since he began secondary school in Scoil Phobail Mhic Dara, with a keen eye for capturing a story, and telling it in a unique way.
His teacher, Róisín Ní Chonfhaola , was trained as part of the TechSpace programme in 2016 from Scoil Phobail Mhic Dara.
Dara impressed judges at the Tech Féile Awards 2020. Dara has a strong grá for Digital Creativity and storytelling. He is very keen to tell the story of his culture and local heritage, but alongside this he has a very strong technical ability also.
The judges went on to say that the standard and the quality of short film’s that Dara had produced was beyond anything that any other young person had submitted throughout the TechSpace Network and his continuous growth of skills was very visible in his work this year. Dara has an exciting year ahead of him as TechSpásóir na Bliana, which includes support for him to continue developing his creations, inspiration through industry partners and opportunities to develop his ideas. The TechSpace Team is looking forward to making it a successful adventure for him in 2020.
34 02 | Milestones Achieved 01 | Introduction
Science Blast On Thursday 5th March a special ‘Science Blast’ day was organised for Gaelscoileanna and Gaeltacht Schools. This was a great opportunity for primary school children from Gaeltacht communities to come together to celebrate their work and enjoy the craic ‘as Gaeilge’ at the same time! Our team attended and assisted with the judging as part of Science Blast 2020.
A survey conducted on behalf of the Royal Dublin Society (RDS) reveals three quarters of primary school students feel adults don’t take climate change as seriously as 8-12 year olds. It also revealed the high esteem that children have for scientists with 71% of primary school students trusting scientists. The same survey also showed that most children (61%) are curious enough and feel confident enough to ask questions in class. The encouragement of curiosity and questioning is an important part of ESB Science Blast.
This event is aligned with the vision and mission of the Clár TechSpace Programme and Camara Ireland will continue to build on partnership and promote opportunities in STEAM for children in 2021.
35 Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community | TechSpace Report
Ard Fhéis na nÓg in conjunction with Conradh na Gaeilge in Rosmuc, Co Galway 90 young people took part in STEAM workshops for Conradh na Gaeilge’s Ard Fheis na nÓg, where they experienced the concept of circuitry, and built STEAM planes – in keeping with the aeronautical theme for Tech Féile.
Mayo Science TechSpace Science Week Week Workshops 60 second - level students partook in STEAM TechSpace Science Week Workshops were developed this workshops, where all had the chance to learn year as part of Science Week 2020 with a focus on Primary about circuitry, coding, and robotics. Students Education Organizations. Camara Ireland delivered 18 also had the opportunity to build their own workshops to 16 Organisations across the Gaeltacht regions robots. from Donegal to Waterford, with over 500 young people attending. Young people were given the opportunity to learn about simple circuits while building a scribble bot in their classroom. Feedback has been very positive towards the activity, and due to this strong feedback Camara Ireland will be incorporating these skills into the next Primary School training development for 2021.
36 02 | Milestones Achieved 01 | Introduction
ESB Creative Tech Fest
ESB Creative Tech Fest is an annual bilingual celebration event for the National TechSpace Education Programme, where over 1,000 young people aged 12-18, were invited from across all counties in Ireland to take part including 450 from Gaeltacht Regions. Youth workers and teachers from the TechSpace Network are supported to facilitate young people to showcase their creative technology projects and take part in inspirational workshops, talks and exhibitions. See ESB Creative Tech Fest report 2020 for further details and feedback findings from this year’s virtual event.
37 Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community | TechSpace Report 03 —
38 01 | Introduction Training and Resource Training in 2020Development
39 Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community | TechSpace Report 03 — Training and Resource Development in 2020
Computer Science through The Irish Language Introduction to Scratch and CS First as Gaeilge Developed
This introduction to computer science training was developed using a combination of needs analysis among teachers and youth workers; monitoring of the latest developments in digital youth work practice; and research into computer science curriculums in both schools and informal settings.
The relatively recent introduction of Computer Science to the Irish school curriculum has left us behind many contemporary European countries in computer science education. Bringing computer science into youth organisations can introduce young people to a fun, collaborative way to learn that will complement the formal education computer science curriculum.
Camara’s Introduction to CS training uses Scratch, Google’s CS First platform, CS Unplugged and more to teach the fundamentals of computational thinking and coding. It is designed to remove confusion about computer science and empower youth workers to facilitate sessions that can focus purely on computer science or combine with the other STEAM subjects.
40 03 | Training & Development 01 | Introduction STEAM in Primary School Developed
Creative Consultant Meetups A training course for primary school teachers to incorporate STEM into the classroom was developed and delivered in January 2020 . Through this training course participants will gain the confidence to deliver and facilitate STEM education in the areas of STEAM and computer science. They will be introduced to Skribots, Destination Mars, Makey Makey, Scratch Jr and Scratch. Training objectives Include: 1. To introduce participants to CS and STEAM. 2. To provide participants with an introduction to Makey Makey, Scratch Jr, Scratch, and SkriBots. 3. Enable participants to facilitate STEAM and CS activities in the primary school setting. 4. Develop a primary school curriculum in STEAM and CS areas.
41 Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community | TechSpace Report
STEAM Summer Camp ar TG4
Camara Ireland, TG4 and Fibín Meangadh Teo
The Campa STEAM on Campa Cúla4 was a collaboration with Meangadh Fíbín and TG4 which aimed to bring a week-long summer camp of STEAM activities to young people aged 5–12. The show replaced traditional summer camps, many of which had been cancelled because of Covid-19. Each day brought with it a new theme: circuits; robotics; exploding science; science around the house; and coding. Each programme focussed on bringing STEAM ideas to young people which they likely had the materials for around their homes. This was to circumvent any difficulties children and adults might have in sourcing specialist materials. It also enabled young people to see the science around them in their everyday lives, that from coding to chemistry and circuitry, there is much they can do with materials commonly found in a family home.
42 03 | Training & Development 01 | Introduction
43 Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community | TechSpace Report 04 —
44 01 | Introduction What have we learntWhat have in 2020?
45 Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community | TechSpace Report 04 — What have we learnt in 2020?
Over 8500 Young People have access to Digital Creativity, STEAM, Computer Science and emerging technology through Clár TechSpace as a result of this programme.
149 TechSpace Sites across the country completed training in the Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community project 500 461
400
300 255 206 200 149
100 76 73 10 0 Total Total Organisations Educators Organisations Lapsed Educators
Secondary Schools & Youth Primary School Organisations (12-18 years)
The following graphs represent, by region, the TechSpace sites that have trained in Clár TechSpace. In total 149 TechSpace sites have completed training, 65 of those were new TechSpace sites in 2020. Of these numbers, most are active sites though some have not continued to deliver TechSpace activities in their club or organisations. Sites are considered active if they are still in operation and have been running techspace activities or indicate intention to run TechSpace activities.
There are a number of reasons that sites that have been trained may not still be active with TechSpace activities. Some, for instance, are volunteer clubs that may have finished due to a lack of volunteers.
46 04 | Learnings from 2020 01 | Introduction
In some cases, projects or clubs that are not running TechSpace activities as educators report that they’re not confident enough to run them in their clubs and projects or that TechSpace activities don’t match the interests of the young people they work with. This is one of the most important reasons for having Cluster Coordinators as part of the team - whose main aim is to keep all groups engaged, ensure that content of the programme is relevant and support educators when they feel overwhelmed.
80
60
40
20
0 Dublin Leinster Munster Connacht
Totals Primary Organisations Secondary/ Youth Ulster Organisations
The Covid-19 restrictions in place from March 2020 also impacted activity as some organisations were not still active and could no longer meet in their settings and, when possible, were meeting and working online. This left many of the organisations and projects incapable of providing their regular programmes and young people unable to participate because they didn’t have access to appropriate technology.
The Clár TechSpace Team put a working plan in place once Covid-19 restrictions were activated to support as many young people and educators throughout this period. See our section on Covid-19 Response for more information.
47 Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community | TechSpace Report
Young People’s Feedback
Creative Consultant Meetups
10 young people from across Ireland and their leaders participated in an online focus group in May 2020. The purpose of the group was to talk to young people about their experience of Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community and to offer them the chance to help shape the future development of the TechSpace programme.
The focus group was based around three main areas of discussion:
1. Young people’s TechSpace experience to date. 2. Young people’s future computer science activities. 3. What should TechSpace focus on for future development?
48 04 | Learnings from 2020 01 | Introduction Young people’s TechSpace experience to date: 1. All participants had been using Scratch to create projects.
2. Some reported their groups have expanded their experience beyond Scratch and made speakers, put together a PC and used MicroBits, but would like to do more.
3. Since March 2020 and the Covid 19 restrictions, one group has made a game in Scratch across Zoom by sharing a screen and coding alongside peers.
4. The chance to try new things was a common theme in the discussion, moving on to other technologies (e.g. Raspberry Pi, Arduino, etc.).
5. Gaming was discussed as a good way to get young people involved and interested in computer science. Minecraft was mentioned as a possibility.
6. Using coding and the computer as a creative tool was key and something that the group came back to a number of times.
49 Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community | TechSpace Report
Young people’s future computer science activities:
1. All reported that they wanted to keep up computer science and wider TechSpace activity in their youth club
2. Young people in 6th class are hoping to pursue computer science as a subject in secondary school.
3. One of the young people would like to do computer science at second level but was unsure if it would be available as a subject in their new school.
4. Some of the young people said they would consider it for a career once they had finished school.
50 04 | Learnings from 2020 01 | Introduction
Feedback from young people taking part in Creative Consultants suggested: 1. Keep using Scratch as a starting point.
2. For a number of young people, Scratch coding is enjoyable but they wanted to try something more challenging.
3. Python was mentioned by one young person as a possibility, they had already made a website using python.
4. Raspberry Pi was another area that the young people identified as something they would be interested in.
5. Exploring robotics was a key area they wanted to focus on.
6. Online challenges - There was some interest in games, making a game to play together and work together.
7. Attending events (Tech Féile and ESB Creative Tech Fest) was mentioned as a great driver.
51 Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community | TechSpace Report New Skills For Educators 700 The Target for Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community Project is to train 700 trained educators by the end of 2021 361 Camara Ireland has trained 361 Educators and Volunteers since January 2020 Training And Learning Outcome Analysis At each training course participants answer a pre and post training survey. When these surveys are compared they can provide measurable data to indicate learning achievements. Responses have on the whole been positive, generally showing a differential post-training on a Likert Scale based on skills, knowledge and attitudes regarding computer science, 21st Century skills and confidence to deliver computer science activities. Training Hopes In the pre-training survey, teachers indicated that they intended to use the material to undertake workshops or a STEAM club in the classroom so that it would encourage children to take up the subject. They wanted to integrate STEAM content with the other school subjects. Many also expected to have the confidence to take up the subject after training.
Prior to their training, some of the difficulties they encountered in undertaking STEAM content in the classroom were the lack of suitable teaching equipment, resources, and aids. Also, lack of knowledge, expecting to have enough after undertaking the training.
52 04 | Learnings from 2020 01 | Introduction Training feedback
After doing this STEAM course, I now have more confidence in dealing with STEAM and I think I can set up a club.”
I really enjoyed the course. The tutor had many examples online. ”
Many thanks for the training especially for the training through the medium of Irish. It ‘s great that technology resources like Scratch, Skribot and Makey Makey are available in Irish. I both enjoyed and benefited from the course. I now have more confidence in coding with the students! ”
It would be better if everyone’s camera was on during the meetings. It was hard to get to know the other people when all the cameras were off. ”
Tar éis an cúrsa STEAM seo a dhéanamh, tá níos mó muiníní agam féin anois agus mé ag plé le cúrsaí STEAM agus sílim go mbeinn in ann club a bhunú.”
Thaitin an cúrsa go mór liom. Bhí samplaí go leor ar líne ag an teagascóir.”
Míle buíochas as an oilliúnt go háirithe as an oilliúnt trí mhéan na Gaeilge. Tá sé go hiontach go bhfuil achmhainní teicneolaíochta cosúil le Scratch, Skribot agus Makey Makey ar fáil sa Ghaelainn. Bhain mé idir taitneamh agus tairbhe as an gcúrsa. Tá níos mó muiníne agam anois tabhairt faoi chódú leis na daltaí!”
Bheadh sé níos fearr dá mbeadh ceamara gach duine ar siúl i rith na gcruinnithe. Bhí sé deacair aithne a chur ar na daoine eile nuair a bhí gach ceamara múchta.”
53 Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community | TechSpace Report
Pre and Post Training Survey Results Pre Survey
I have enough confidence to plan and design a range of STEAM activities for my class. 20 17 16 11 15 10 5 10 Number of educators 5
0 1 2 3 4 5
I use STEAM Education in my classroom
30 25
20 12 11
10 Number of educators 5 2
0 Daily Few days a week Few days a fortnight Few days a month Few days a year
The three graphs above show responses to pre-training questionnaires filled out by educators. They show that there is a wide range of confidence, understanding and usage of STEAM in education settings. Over 45% of educators only use STEAM education in their classroom at most a few days a year. Over 70% didn’t feel they had the confidence to plan and design STEAM activities for their class (those that rated their level as 3 or less). Similarly almost 75% rated their understanding of practical STEAM activities as 3 or less.
54 04 | Learnings from 2020 01 | Introduction
Pre-survey questions
50
40
30
20 Number of educators
10
0 Do you understand the meaning Tá mé in ann na buntáistí a Tá mé in ann tionchar agus of “gluaiseacht déantúsaíochta” bhaineann le STEAM a mhíniú scileanna 21ú haois e éiríonn as i gcomhthéasc an múnla gníomhaíochtaí STEAM a ainmniú “neamhfhoirmeálta” Yes No Somewhat
AM activities as 3 or less.
The above responses show that teachers felt they could link STEAM to 21st century skills and explain the benefits in an informal education setting. However over 30% of teachers felt they could not do this and more than 3 out of every 4 teachers did not understand what the “maker movement” is. This shows that there is still a gap to fill when it comes to teachers’ understanding of STEAM and how it relates to the broader movements and skills involved. Along with the first three charts which showed a lack of confidence and knowledge when it comes to STEAM activities. This is a clear gap which a program of training like those delivered by the Clar TechSpace project can attempt to fill.
55 Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community | TechSpace Report Post Training Surveys As described above educators often lack knowledge and confidence when it comes to practical, hands-on STEAM activities.
Feedback on Training 5 4 3 100%
75%
50%
25%
0% Between 1-5 describe How would you rate Was the course How would you Was the course how would you rate this the quality of resource structure satisfactory? evaluate the exercise relevant to my trainign course? materials? and/ or practical work for this course? work? After the training sessions commented that over all they feel more confident to facilitate STEAM activities with young people.
As can be seen from the chart above, the feedback received from educators on the quality of TechSpace training was extremely positive. When rating the training course out of 5 over 90% responded with a score of 4 or 5. This was also reflected in questions on the content, the structure and the practical elements of the training, all of which had over 87% of responses rated as 4 or 5. The training was also felt to be extremely relevant with 100% of respondents rated the relevance to their work as 4 or 5 out of 5. Alongside this, as seen in the chart below, 100% of respondents would recommend our training to their colleagues and over 85% felt that the learning objectives of the training were achieved.
Feedback on Training 5 4 3 2 Yes 100%
75%
50%
25%
0% The undergraduate results of this How would you rate the quality of Was the course structure course were clearly specified? resource materials? satisfactory?
As can be seen from the final chart below, the trainers and their delivery of the content was also praised in the feedback with over 91% rating the delivery of the content, the tutors knowledge of the topics and the tutors ability to answer their questions with at least 4 out of 5.
Feedback on Trainers 5 4 3 2 100%
75%
50%
25%
0% How would you rate the Did the Tutor The Tutuor answered The pace and flow of The resource Tutor on this course? demonstrate a clear all your questions this training course materials were understanding of the satisfactorily? aided the learning presented in a clear course content? and understandable way? 56 04 | Learnings from 2020 01 | Introduction
Learning Network Meeting
In January 2020, 8 second level teachers from 8 schools around the country attended a Learning Network meeting where they could participate in workshops and give feedback on Clár TechSpace.
Over 2 days the educators were given the opportunity to hone their skills in digital creativity & computer science through a filmmaking workshop with Richie O’Donnell and a workshop in artificial intelligence by Kevin Scanlon.
There was also a facilitated discussion to talk to the teachers about their experience of Clár TechSpace to date and find out how the programme could best meet their needs and the needs of their students in the future.
57 Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community | TechSpace Report Feedback from Teachers: 1. Participants reported that they were satisfied overall with the quality and provision of the TechSpace programme.
2. TechSpace materials help teachers with the school curriculum, in particular the classroom based assessments which account for 10% of the Junior Certificate results.
3. Teachers were very positive about the ability of Camara Ireland to help with CPD, and would like further opportunities in summer time for upskilling within the TechSpace programme.
4. Through TechSpace activities there is a great opportunity for children with special needs, and those undertaking the Level 1 and Level 2 Learning Programmes at Junior Cycle, to improve upon their skills.
5. Some teachers reported needing more support and confidence in directing their young people through TechSpace work.
6. Positive reports were received about the Irish language, and TechSpace’s role in promoting it. Teachers found our robust approach invaluable. This approach encompasses teacher training, supporting materials for the classroom, full STEAM terminology as Gaeilge and support sessions for teachers.
7. Teachers attending recommended more support materials for the classroom, and contact with other schools. The current widening of our online network to supply further support materials to teachers and to enable teachers to communicate with one another should help with this.
58 04 | Learnings from 2020 01 | Introduction 8. One of the biggest issues teachers face is time to undertake TechSpace projects. Class time is often used, and lunchtime. Most have difficulty with after-school programmes as young people need to get buses home. Further focus on integration with the second-level curriculum would enable teachers to devote more class time to projects.
9. Teachers report that students are really enjoying and engaging with the TechSpace programme. They particularly welcome opportunities to give their own feedback at Comhairle Teic na nÓg sessions and enjoy interacting with other young people.
10. In terms of equipment, teachers are happy with the equipment used, though would invite a more central purchasing system. They recommended the equipment be purchased through Camara in order to save the amount of work involved for each school.
Recommendations The main needs identified from the learner meeting session: 1. More curriculum and materials for the classroom 2. A structured approach of tying TechSpace material to the existing curriculum that teachers are working through. 3. A continuing growth of the TechSpace community among Educators regionally and nationally. 4. A focus on training additional educators within each organisation to reduce workload on individual teachers.
59 Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community | TechSpace Report
Case Studies
Helen Ní Chríodáin Coláiste Naomh Eoin - Inis Meáin, Árainn Winner of the ESB Creative Tech Fest Educator of the Year 2020 1. What has TechSpace made possible to you as an educator?
TechSpace is a fabulous creative resource for me as an educator. I spend most of my time with students or other teachers, in the school environment. TechSpace has adults who are neither, and by bringing together professionals from different backgrounds enables a creative forum for discussion, brainstorming, collaboration and creativity. I enjoyed the collegiality of my fellow technology teachers outside our school settings, and their school stories, and learning from film-makers, web site designers, programmers and computer scientists amongst others.
60 04 | Learnings from 2020 01 | Introduction
2. How has TechSpace helped people who are afraid of tech or don’t know how to use tech in their work? Technology has so many gadgets and applications that the soft skills acquired by tinkering with any aspect of technology allow us to be more adaptable and a quicker study when we approach our next technological challenge.
TechSpace has worksheets, training in person workshops or now webinars and on-line training equipment and tech support to scaffold the learning and support their end-users in becoming more competent in using tech in work.
3. Is TechSpace supporting disadvantaged youth? Yes. All educators and youth who engage with TechSpace are supported. TechSpace paid for my training, and travel for my students to attend TechFéile in Shannon Airport in early March. The equipment TechSpace gave my school allowed all our students to engage with soldering and glue guns and make their own vehicles for the TechSpace competition. All students had equal access to use the tools and attend the event.
4. Would you recommend it to others and if so why?
Yes. The combination of technical support, equipment grants and events for students to participate and showcase their work is inspiring. One of my colleagues joked that our students were like Eurovision winners at the TechFéile event. They were delighted and inspired by the opportunity to use technology.
Especially in this time of remote working, effective use of technology is essential. Those who can tinker, engage and ask questions will succeed.
61 Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community | TechSpace Report 05 —
62 01 | Introduction Future Thinking forFuture Clár TechSpace
63 Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community | TechSpace Report
64 05 | Future Thinking 05— 01 | Introduction Future Thinking for Clár TechSpace Recommendations from Teachers for future training innovation Clár TechSpace in 2020 will develop a five year framework for the TechSpace programme within the Gaelscoil Primary Schools in Ireland. Enhancing the primary school curriculum through Irish with a focus on STEAM and Digital Creativity.
Further focus on integration with the second-level curriculum would enable teachers to devote more class time to projects.
Creating more opportunities to engage and gather feedback from young people at our Comhairle Teic na nÓg sessions is important and the potential to align this with the work of Hub na nÓg should be considered.
In order to build in sustainability, capital grants were identified as a requirement to ensure educators were equipped with the resources to develop and build the TechSpace Program within organisations. Camara Ireland will endeavour to work with sponsors and partners to continue to support organisations to access cost efficient hardware and software solutions for education. TechSpace Recognition Programme Camara Ireland is developing a recognition and 5 year progression program for organisations who have been involved in the program since it began in 2016. This is part of a marketing and promotion strategy to further embed the programme within the Irish Education Sector, Tech Industry Sector and Youth Work Sector.
We have seen many young people grow with the program, along with their educators, and at our annual events, there is a great opportunity to celebrate and highlight this. There is further opportunity to showcase the great work that is carried out in classrooms and youth clubs across the country on an ongoing basis. As such, Monthly TechSpace Awards will become a permanent feature of our programming for TechSpace and the Creative Tech Fest.
65 Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community | TechSpace Report
Educators’ Creative Confidence
Evidence arising from the implementation of Clár TechSpace suggests that widespread facilitation of creative approaches to using technology in schools in the Gaeltacht is still a relatively new development. There is hesitancy around integration of technology and STEAM education as an activity when compared to more traditional activities (e.g. sport, drama or arts and craft). Some educators reported a lack of confidence to facilitate technology projects and activities even after completing training.
Anecdotal and pre-training survey evidence suggests that many volunteers and staff believe that they lack technical competence and have a perceived deficit in learning digital skills. This seems to be one of the main factors in educators not implementing the programme. This suggests the need to build on a national and moving community of practice to support educators. As such, Camara Ireland will establish regular national and local meet-ups and networking opportunities for educators to continue to develop their practice.
66 01 | Introduction
67 Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community | TechSpace Report 06 —
68 01 | Introduction In Conclusion
69 Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community | TechSpace Report
70 06 | Conclusion 06— 01 | Introduction In Conclusion A key Change in 2020 Clár TechSpace is a creative technology education programme delivered at a national level from 2019. It has continued to expand since then, especially with the rapid expansion into Primary Schools in 2020.
Tech Féile was delivered at a national level this year, with an-increase in numbers to 400 young people. There was positive feedback from young people who had an-opportunity to participate in over 30 workshops. Our partnership with Shannon Airport was a success which gave us the opportunity to increase the number of attendees, and develop workshops connected to STEM industries based in the west of Ireland. .
In March 2020, we were hit with Covid-19, which had a dramatic effect on our annual plan for Clár TechSpace. I believe our team’s response to this unpredicted event was very positive with our training instantly adapted to be delivered online for the first time since the program began. This model of delivery has received very positive feedback, and it is something we will certainly be reviewing in the coming months as we continue to develop remote relationships. Educators have feedback that training content is more accessible due to the delivery being expanded over a 4 week period, and not one full day of in-person training. We have also reached over 1000 young people with activity kits in which they were able to do at home during lockdown. In 2020 we saw a key shift in the attitude and willingness of educators to be open to change in their practice and supported many educators to adapt to the need to utilise technology in the classroom.
The TechSpace Programme is providing a positive space for young people and educators in Ireland to create, invent and inspire future generations and to celebrate the irish language along with this.
A greater focus will be placed on marketing and communications of messaging and opportunities associated with Clár TechSpace into 2020/2021 to heighten national awareness of the programme and to attract matched funding to sustain the growth of the programme, meeting the demand for further training and support for educators and young people to learn about creative technology, STEAM and Digital Creativity through Irish.
The combined funding from the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media and Science Foundation Ireland has allowed Camara Ireland to grow the TechSpace programme provision and enhance a rich bank of resources available based on new and innovative technology development through irish.
Helping Camara Ireland to further their vision of an Ireland where all young people have the skills to realise their potential and confidently create their future.
71 Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community | TechSpace Report
72 01 | Introduction
Camara Education Phone:+353 (0)1 65 22 665 Unit 3 The Guinness Enterprise Email: [email protected] Centre, Taylors Lane, Dublin 8 www.camara.org
73 Clár TechSpace & STEAM in the Travelling Community | TechSpace Report
www.techspace.ie
74