Innovate for Climate Change

A 7-session introductory computing course that supports students in creating a community focused, climate action app prototype.

Secondary

Ages 11 to 14
In-school
Flexible project work
Free

Run by Apps for Good.

Check availability

A 7-session introductory computing course that supports students in creating a community focused, climate action app prototype.

Students will work in pairs or teams to design and create an app prototype focused on 1 or more of the 5 climate action UN Sustainable Development Goals for a community they are familiar with and care about.

During each session, the class teacher’s role is to facilitate learning, using the high-quality and fully pre-planned resource materials available. Students progress through a detailed eWorkbook which contains information, knowledge and collaborative, engaging activities.

Session overview:

Session 1 sets the context of the course and students learn about the Carbon Cycle and CO2e. Using this knowledge, they consider how different decisions made can alter the impact of climate change on the planet.
In session 2 and 3, students take part in a range of quick sprint ideation activities as they begin to develop ideas for their climate action app before agreeing which idea to take forward. Once they agree on an idea, they begin to design their prototype on App Lab, a free tool accessible on the code.org website.
In session 4, students are given the opportunity to share their app idea virtually with someone who works in the tech industry to gain feedback. This session can then help the students to make their idea as unique and innovative as possible and get them to think about important design processes such as user research, user experience and understanding their user.
During session 5 and 6, students will use Design and Code mode in App Lab to create and refine their prototype App.
In session 7, students will prepare to enter their app idea into Apps for Good’s annual Showcase which is a virtual celebration event of student teams across the UK. App ideas are submitted via a simple online form and shortlisted by Industry Volunteers. Finalists have the opportunity to pitch their ideas to Industry Professionals and be showcased on the Apps for Good website.

Learning outcomes

Improve engagement, interest or enjoyment in STEM subjects
Improve attainment and progress in STEM subjects
Improve awareness and aspirations for STEM-related study and careers

Subjects and topics

- Computing
- Energy and environment

Gatsby benchmarks

The Gatsby benchmarks are a framework for good careers guidance for schools across all of England and in some areas across the rest of the UK. This experience helps your school to reach the following benchmarks:

Linking curriculum learning to careers
Encounters with employers and employees

Essential skills

The essential skills every young person needs to succeed in education and their future career. Find out more at the Skills Builder Partnership. This experience builds the following skills:

Aiming high - the ability to set clear, tangible goals and devise a robust route to achieving them.
Creativity - the use of imagination and the generation of new ideas.
Leadership - supporting, encouraging and motivating others to achieve a shared goal.
Listening - the ability to listen and understand information.
Problem solving - the ability to find a solution to a complex situation or challenge.
Speaking - the oral transmission of information or ideas.
Staying positive - the ability to use tactics to overcome setbacks and achieve goals.
Teamwork - working cooperatively with others towards achieving a shared goal.