Collaborative Initiatives for Promoting Computer Science in Secondary Schools

This paper presents a model for local collaborative working to support school teachers and their pupils in computer science. In the city of Coventry in the UK a network of representatives from various local government organizations, universities, professional bodies and schools has been working together for mutual advantage to organize and support initiatives that encourage and facilitate the teaching of computer science and information and communications technology in schools. Major events to date include a day conference, workshops and seminars for ICT teachers and a series of web design competitions for local schools. The paper discusses advantages and conflicts of a networking approach for improving understanding between different agencies working towards a common goal and concludes with plans for further collaborative ventures.