MEI is part of an exciting international project to pilot innovative data skills enrichment with Key Stage 3 students. Sponsored by the technology company NetApp, the Data Explorers programme has been developed by TERC, the leading US-based STEM education organisation, and has been piloted in the USA and India. MEI is leading a UK-based pilot this year in three schools near NetApp’s HQ close to Heathrow with a view to making the opportunity more widely available should the pilot be successful.

MEI is pleased to lead the Data Explorers pilot in the UK. It is increasingly recognised that the ability to unlock the full potential of data is a necessary skill and competency that needs to be taught starting at a young age, and it is essential for us to understand how this can be done in an effective and engaging way.  

Data Explorers is designed as an after-school club and is an opportunity targeted for disadvantaged students. It comprises 12 hours of exposition, student activities with data using the CODAP platform, and exploratory project work. Students develop their skills and competencies using social issue data on topics that they care about, ranging from climate change to health equity, to education. The course also offers insights into what data scientists do and careers in the field. Sessions will be delivered by an MEI Educator in conjunction with a school lead teacher, and project work will be supported by local NetApp employees.

If you would like to express an interest in taking part in the pilot from January 2022, please get in touch.