Computer Science at Sacred Heart

Our Computer Science Experience so far…

By Katie Kiely and Aideen Murphy

We, a small class of five students, have been studying the new pilot Leaving Certificate subject Computer Science since September, taking the leap as some of the first students in Ireland to sit the exam. Sacred Heart is one of just forty schools in the country and one of just 3 all girls’ schools taking part in this pilot. We are also the only school in West Cork to offer Computer Science as a subject to Leaving Certificate.

Our first order of business was to learn our first coding language, Python. It was a whole new world for all of us in the class, however we progressed quickly from merely reading and understanding code written by our teacher Mr. Kiely to actually being able to write complicated and useful code ourselves. In a matter of weeks we moved from running a program to print our names, to being able to encrypt and decipher passwords and messages.

Currently we are studying Embedded Systems (small programmable computer chips). These chips perform specific functions within a larger system and allow processes to be automated. Examples are alarm systems, heating systems and smart homes. In our learning we have planned, designed, programmed and wired various circuits to react to external parameters such as light, temperature, and magnetic fields and take action accordingly.

On the 23rd of November we went on our first field trip to Global Shares in Clonakilty Technology Park. We received a warm welcome (pizza!) and a tour of the premises to start our day off. We were introduced to what Global Shares do and took a look at how they manage the breaking down and delegation of larger tasks and the development of software. We learned a lot and intend to implement some of the strategies they employ in our own projects. Most importantly we were inspired by the day and returned energised. We had a brilliant day and are grateful to Global Shares for the opportunity.

As a class, we agree that Computer Science is one of our favourite subjects currently. When Friday afternoon comes, bringing with it our double class, we all feel excitement, not dread, and we look forward to discovering more of what this brilliant subject has to offer.