Raspberry Pi-way code

The following is an excerpt from the Ileach – the independent newspaper for Islay and Jura. Issue 43/20 published 23 July 2016.

Joseph Hughes writes:

A group of young people on an SQA certificated course run by Islay and Jura Youth Action & Argyll College, wanted to learn more about computer coding when their course finished. Argyll College’s Mairi McCuaig was directed to CoderDojo Scotland by Lisa from Argyll Arts Hub who were delighted to hear the group were keen to set up on Islay and offered some training. A successful bid submitted to Fourteen enabled the trip to go ahead.

The CoderDojo Foundation is a volunteer led movement which started in Ireland, but is now reaching out globally. The movement centres around creating and providing spaces for young people between the ages of 7-17 to learn about technology and coding in an environment that encourages learning with peers.

On our trip we met Craig Steele, the founder of the CoderDojo Scotland movement. He introduced us to some of the technology, such as computers like the Raspberry Pi and various programs that are often used at their clubs. We were also taught how we can use them to teach other young people about writing code or using the technology to make games, create music, or even for use in aiding everyday life. Craig also showed us some of the projects CoderDojo had worked on with the BBC to give us ideas for our own club.

Islay and Jura coders’ visit to CoderDojo Scotland

Now back home, armed with knowledge and a small amount of kit provided by IJYA, we plan to setup our own CoderDojo clubs back here on Islay and Jura. We plan to have our launch/sign-up day starting at 4:30pm on Thursday 8 September at IDEAs Cabin in Bowmore. More information will follow through newspapers, posters and via the Islay and Jura Youth Action and Islay/Jura Community pages on Facebook. Hope to see you there!

This project was funded from the Fourteen Islay & Jura Programme through the Fourteen Islay & Jura Panel. The Fund is administered by Foundation Scotland

We’re looking forward to seeing the start up and development of the new CoderDojos in Islay and Jura.

Natalie, CoderDojo Scotland