Ballyclare Primary School visit for Digital School House Lesson

By Ballyclare High School on 23 November, 2023

Ballyclare Primary Schools’ Engaging Visit to Ballyclare High School for Digital School House Lesson

Students from Ballyclare Primary School embarked on an educational journey to Ballyclare High School today for an interactive Digital School House lesson. The session focused on introducing primary school children to the world of algorithms, utilizing an innovative approach that combined technology and dance.

Led by Mr. Shaw,  the lesson aimed to demystify the concept of algorithms through a fun and engaging activity. The students learned that, much like dance moves, computer operations are based on a set of repeated instructions.

The highlight of the day was when the primary school children used the popular video game “Just Dance” to explore the concept of algorithms. The game allowed them to grasp the idea that dance routines are essentially sequences of repeated instructions, similar to how computers execute algorithms. The integration of technology and dance not only made the learning process enjoyable but also provided a tangible and relatable analogy for the young learners.

Adding a personal touch to the day, Mr. Stewart from Ballyclare Primary School accompanied his class during the visit. The experience became even more interesting as it was revealed that Mr. Stewart is a former pupil of Mr. Shaw, creating a unique connection between the past and present.

The collaborative effort between the two schools was not only educational but also fostered a sense of community and shared learning. Students from Ballyclare Primary School not only gained insights into the world of computer science but also had the opportunity to interact with their high school counterparts, creating a positive and inspiring atmosphere.

Reflecting on the day’s events, Mr. Shaw expressed his satisfaction, stating, “It was a fantastic day of learning and collaboration. The enthusiasm and curiosity shown by the primary school children were truly inspiring. Using technology and dance to teach algorithms allowed us to make a complex concept accessible and enjoyable for the students.”