What are Smart Skills?

March 6, 2016

In the context of this course, Smart Skills include technical skills such as app design and software development, and transferable skills such as creativity, problem-solving, teamwork, and project management. The course seeks to show students where these fields overlap and

Read more ›

What computer equipment is needed to teach this course?

Students should have access to a PC or Mac with Internet access, preferably one computer per student, with Google Chrome installed. The school’s computers, network, and connectivity will be assessed during a site visit by DCU Access Service staff.

What format do the lessons take?

Lessons are based around building a number of Android apps using MIT App Inventor. Detailed instructional videos and transcripts are provided; students will work through this material at their own pace. All videos are available on YouTube for convenience.

What supporting materials are available?

In addition to the videos, teachers have access to a full suite of supporting materials, including: reference library, test methods, project briefs, teaching notes, sample apps, and further challenges for students who progress quickly. This material can be accessed directly

Read more ›

How long is the course?

The course is structured as an introductory session followed by three modules, with new concepts introduced in each module, and put into practice by building an Android app. There is no fixed timescale for each module, as the time taken

Read more ›

Can students run the apps on their own phones?

Yes, provided they have enabled ‘sideloading’ of apps, that is, installing apps from sources other than official online app stores. This can usually be enabled on the Settings / Security screen, and appears as an option to install apps from

Read more ›

What if my school doesn’t use Google Apps for Education?

You have three options: use an existing Gmail account create a new Google account and Gmail address: https://accounts.google.com/SignUp create a Google account using your existing email address: https://accounts.google.com/SignUpWithoutGmail If your students do not have GAFE email addresses, they will need

Read more ›

Can I build an app to control a LEGO Mindstorms EV3?

April 19, 2019

Yes, you can. One way to do this is to establish a Bluetooth connection between the Android device and LEGO Mindstorms EV3 control block. There are some examples in the LEGO Mindstorms EV3 section of the DCU TY App Library.