Computing Cross Curriculum - Is it’s the Future
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Introduction
I recently had the opportunity to work with a group of PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) students during a session aimed at introducing them to the world of primary school computing. The goal was to give them an overview of the curriculum and provide some hands-on demonstrations to bring it to life.
To start, I asked how many of them felt confident teaching computing - not a single hand was raised. What stood out even more was their response when I asked what they thought computing in primary education looked like. Most mentioned coding, along with using PowerPoint or Microsoft Word - and that was the extent of it. For a group of students ranging in age from eighteen to their mid-thirties, it was eye-opening to see how limited their perception of computing in education was.
Things Need To Change and Cross Over
There’s no doubt that the way schools approach computing has evolved significantly since the days of dedicated computer suites in the late 1980s and 1990s. As technology has advanced, many schools have transitioned to using laptops in the classroom or relying solely on iPads. While some educators I’ve spoken with reflect fondly on the old computer suites and occasionally wish they hadn’t moved away from them, this shift has opened up exciting new possibilities and a different way of working.
Far from limiting the way computing is taught, this change has expanded opportunities for students to develop a broad range of skills. Whether it’s coding, working with spreadsheets, word processing, or exploring graphic design, students now have more ways than ever to engage with technology in meaningful, hands-on ways. I shared with the PGCE students that computing in the 21st century goes far beyond coding — it’s a vibrant and varied field full of opportunities for children to explore, create, and grow their digital skills in ways that are relevant and empowering.
Dedicated Computer Lessons or Cross Curriculum
Integrating computing throughout the primary school curriculum offers exciting opportunities and significant benefits for students. It not only nurtures essential skills but also prepares children for success in an increasingly digital world, while encouraging meaningful connections between different subjects.
By embracing cross-curricular computing, children develop valuable skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity. It also promotes computational thinking - the ability to break down complex challenges into manageable parts; a powerful approach that enhances learning across all subjects and supports success in everyday life.
In today’s technology-driven world, giving children the chance to engage with computing across the curriculum ensures they are well-equipped with the knowledge and confidence needed to thrive in a dynamic digital future.
However, many PGCE students initially struggled to grasp this concept. During the first show of hands, it became clear that there was a general lack of confidence in teaching computing. Additionally, comments from students during the second show of hands revealed a common misconception - that computing is solely about coding, spreadsheets or word processing.
Snapping It Together and using AI
Using technology in different subject areas can make learning more engaging and motivating for children, it helps children understand how computing is used in real-world contexts and fosters digital literacy, enabling children to use technology safely, responsibly, and effectively.
But how does this look in practice? Lets take a look at some real world examples.
English
One of the simplest ways to combine English with computing is by having children write a piece and type it up using a word processor, but why stop there? Imagine the excitement of children writing their own poems and then using AI to transform those poems into songs, or even creating an entire album! You could take it a step further and design a custom musical based on historical events or a book they’re currently reading, bringing stories and learning to life in an unforgettable way.
I recently taught a lesson just like this, and the response was phenomenal. The classroom was buzzing with energy as children created, wrote, discussed, collaborated, and explored cutting-edge AI tools - technology that would have seemed impossible to access just a year ago.
What truly amazed them was the incredible quality of music that AI could generate from their own heartfelt writing. Once they heard their first song, they were hooked eager to write more and unleash their creativity in new and inspiring ways. It was a powerful, joyful reminder of how technology can amplify imagination and make learning magical.
Geography
Geography offers an exciting gateway to explore a wide range of digital tools from spreadsheets and word processors to Google Earth and AI - making learning both interactive and impactful. Imagine a lesson on natural disasters where technology helps bring the topic vividly to life, enabling students to truly grasp what natural disasters are, how and where they occur, and the profound effects they have on people and places.
For instance, a lesson on “Devastating Natural Disasters of the Last 100 Years” could start with a powerful unplugged activity. Students could discuss and reflect on the concept of natural disasters, take handwritten notes, and build a solid understanding of the topic, all before even logging onto a computer.
From there, students can dive into research using AI tools to gather information, followed by completing a guided worksheet. Next, they’ll input data such as the locations and death tolls of each disaster into a spreadsheet. With that data, they’ll create visually engaging graphs, which are then added to their worksheet, deepening their comprehension through hands-on analysis.
But the real magic happens when they bring it all together in a Google Earth tour, mapping each disaster, adding key facts, and exploring the landscapes impacted. Using AI, they can even generate images of real or imagined disasters, helping them visualize environments in a creative and immersive way.
This type of lesson sparks curiosity, promotes collaboration, and empowers students with digital skills all while making geography come alive in a truly unforgettable way!
Using AI and Across All Abilities
No conversation about the future of education would be complete without highlighting the incredible potential of artificial intelligence (AI). While we may not know exactly how AI will fully integrate into children's learning experiences, one thing is certain it’s going to be transformative. Imagine AI bots working side by side with students in real time, guiding them, tracking their progress, and acting as supportive mentors every step of the way.
AI is already opening up exciting opportunities for children to interact, create, and explore ideas in ways that were once unimaginable. This is where AI truly shines, sparking creativity and curiosity in every learner. For children with special educational needs (SEN), AI becomes a powerful tool that helps them overcome challenges and achieve things they may have once found difficult, unlocking their potential and building confidence.
The feedback from teachers has been overwhelmingly positive. Some have said:
“All students can achieve no matter what level they are.”
“Children work at their own pace, but can be very creative.”
AI is versatile and can be used across the curriculum from composing music and conducting research to graphic design and generating vivid images for creative writing. It breathes life into any project, allowing all students, including those who may be underachieving, to create work they can be proud of. With AI, the possibilities are limitless, and every child has the chance to shine.
Summing it all up
As we look to the future of education, it’s clear that computing and especially AI holds incredible promise for transforming how children learn, create, and engage with the world around them. By moving beyond the outdated view that computing is just coding or word processing, we open the door to vibrant, cross-curricular experiences that inspire creativity, foster independence, and build essential digital skills for life.
Whether it’s composing music from poems, visualising historical events through interactive maps, or exploring the limitless possibilities of AI, the integration of technology into learning empowers every student to thrive. It enables teachers to spark curiosity, encourage collaboration, and support learners of all abilities in reaching their full potential.
Now more than ever, we have the tools and opportunities to make learning dynamic, meaningful, and accessible for all. By embracing innovation with enthusiasm and an open mind, we can ensure that the next generation is not only ready for the digital future, they're excited to shape it. Let’s continue to explore, create, and inspire, together.
John Goodier