Back by Popular Demand! ComputerXplorers Summer Camp at Cork Institute of Technology
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A hugely popular technology skills summer camp run by ComputerXplorers Cork & Kerry last summer at Cork Institute of Technology (CIT) is back again this year. An additional 12 spaces mean that 60 teenagers aged 14 to 17 years will have the opportunity to experience first-hand the latest advances in software technology, design their own web site or create a video game.
Julie Morgan, Ursuline Secondary School, Blackrock, Cork attended last year’s camp: “I really have never enjoyed any summer camp more than I have enjoyed this one! I would recommend this to all teenagers with an interest in IT! Thanks for running it!!!”
The technology camps are run by ComputerXplorers Cork & Kerry, a leading provider of Information and Communications Technology ICT education, and take place in the fully equipped computer labs at CIT’s Bishopstown Campus. There are four camps available, the first commencing on 13 June, running on consecutive weeks until 4 July. The programme is part funded by The Higher Education Authority (HEA) and CIT, with students paying €65 towards the course. Places will be allocated on a first come first served basis.
Part of an initiative from the Third Level Computing Forum (TLFC), the aim is to demonstrate to students the team working nature of the computing professions, giving participants a unique insight into the kinds of opportunities available in this growing sector in Ireland. As well as learning how to use the most exciting software packages the students will hear talks and presentations from industry professionals who will acts as mentors, helping them to realise their potential and consider pursuing technology courses at third-level Educational Institutions.
Paul Ryan, Coláiste Chríost Rí, Cork who also attended last year’s summer camp said: “I feel that I learned a lot and that there was a good balance of activities and talks. For me, the best aspect was probably the web design, even though I enjoyed it all. I also enjoyed video-game programming. I have never enjoyed programming, but I found using the software intuitive and simple. It really made me think about what I must do to get something to work and encouraged me to keep trying if things don't go right.”
Therese Cronin, Owner of ComputerXplorers Cork & Kerry, said: “The aim of the camps is to give students the chance to experiment with the latest technology, so that they can make an informed decision when it comes to choosing their third-level course.
“They will gain an insight into the academic environment and see what it feels like to study a computer related course. Most importantly, the subjects we are teaching are fun, exciting and relevant to young people. Our experience shows that the students really enjoy the experience and come away from the lessons not only technology literate, but they also improve their maths and science skills.”
The Higher Education Authority (HEA) is supporting the initiative, which came about as the result of a report commissioned into attitudes on career opportunities in computing in Ireland. The report identified that both students and parents are uninformed about the type and nature of careers that are available in this exciting Irish industry sector.
The camps run from Monday – Friday, 9.30am – 3.30pm, weeks commencing 13 June – 17 June; 20 June – 24 June; 27 June – 1 July; and 4 July – 8 July. Cost €65 per student.
