£9.5m project gives pupils a sense of data power

A world-leading initiative that brings the latest smart technology into classrooms to help pupils prepare for a data-driven future has been launched in Midlothian.

Internet of Things

The scheme, backed by the UK and Scottish Governments, will introduce pupils to the so-called Internet of Things (IoT) – networks of devices capable of collecting and exchanging a vast range of data.

Classroom solutions

Primary and secondary classes across south-east Scotland will learn how to interpret reams of statistics produced by sensors tracking environmental conditions in their schools. So far, pupils and teachers at Roslin Primary and Newbattle High Schools have worked with engineers, data educators and technologists to design a range of classroom solutions.

Digital landscape

Learning how to make sense of the data will not only enable pupils improve their school environment but also equip them to navigate an increasingly complex digital landscape. It will also help to prepare them for work in new data-driven industries.

Sensors

Classroom sensors that gauge CO2, temperature, humidity, air pressure and light levels will be offered to all 550 schools. Some of the schools involved in the £9.5 million project will also receive outdoor air quality monitors, soil moisture sensors and weather stations. Each device will be linked to a high performance computer at the University of Edinburgh where the raw data will be converted into graph form, which pupils can readily access.

Informed decisions

This prime example of the IoT in action means that pupils – accessing graphs on laptops, tablets or a PC – can make informed decisions that will help create optimum learning conditions in class. Sensor readings might suggest, for instance, that improving oxygen or light levels in a classroom would boost pupils’ alertness during lessons. Outside of the class, analysis of playground air quality might highlight that steps should be taken to reduce levels of exhaust fumes at the school gate.

Network

The sensor network will introduce the secure and safe use of connected IoT sensors in the taught curriculum, and play a crucial role in aiding the development of data literacy in schools. Whatever the individual gains, according to the project’s leaders, the overall aim of the IoT project is to help the pupils of today become the data citizens of tomorrow.

Project to be extended

Now the project will extend to every school in Edinburgh, the Lothians, Fife and the Scottish Borders. Support will be available to pupils and teachers through the Data Education in Schools Team at the University.

Skills and knowledge

UK Government Minister for Scotland, Iain Stewart said: “The UK Government’s £260 million support for Data Driven Innovation around Edinburgh is equipping people with the skills and knowledge to make the most of an increasingly data-driven world. This fantastic programme gives students the tools they need to learn about data and use it to improve their school environment.”

City Region Deal

The IoT project is being funded as part of the Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Region Deal. The Deal, announced in 2018, aims to drive growth across the region and includes investment in skills and employability, transport, housing, innovation and culture.

Data Capital of Europe

A key objective of the £1.3bn Deal is to make Edinburgh & South-East Scotland the ‘Data Capital of Europe’. Professor Judy Robertson, Chair of Digital Learning at the University of Edinburgh, says data skills development is relevant across all curriculum areas, topics and themes.

Hugely significant

“Data has been hugely significant in decision-making around Covid, but it influences many areas and having the skills to use data effectively and responsibly is increasingly important,” said Professor Robertson.

Tomorrow's workforce

With a bombardment of information – swelled by smart phones, social media and online selling – comes a demand for meaningful analysis, which the programme is seeking to address. Equipping tomorrow’s workforce so it can meet that need will, Professor Robertson says, drive economic growth and aid game-changing research that tackles real-world challenges.

Pictured

The data team at Roslin Primary School, where the initiative was launched. Picture credit: Neil Hanna.