School lessons by PlayStation

March 29th, 2007, 21:09 Posted By: wraggster

via birmingham mail

CHILDREN at a Birmingham school will be using PlayStations as part of their lessons in a revolutionary new education scheme.

Teachers at Holyhead Secondary School in Handsworth are being taught how to use the PlayStation Portable games machine to boost pupils' learning.

The hand-held console will be given to youngsters in the pilot scheme, which aims to turn computer gaming into a new educational tool.

But there won't be any 'shoot 'em up' or football games on offer - the consoles will stay in the classroom and will be initially used to help French, history and geography lessons.

Software giant Sony is using the inner-city school as a pilot for the scheme, which could be extended nationwide depending on its success.

Holyhead was chosen as a guinea pig for the project after recruiting a former Sony high flyer to its teaching ranks.

French language teacher Lorna Diprose switched careers to join the teaching profession in September 2004 and has now established links with the hi-tech Japanese company.

The pilot has involved Holyhead teachers receiving training in the use of the £150 PSPs over the last two months.

Trials involving pupils will begin in the classroom immediately after the Easter holidays.

Head teacher Martin Bayliss said: "This is very exciting.

"It's not about using the console for games, but it does have a lot of exciting potential for learning opportunities.

"Sony are interested in developing education software and we are delighted that they are carrying out their PlayStation pilot at Holyhead."
Mr Bayliss said simulations were being carried out in key subjects, with teachers learning how to create podcasts, download pictures and videos, upload students' work and help students with particular learning needs.
Ms Diprose, who worked for Sony's marketing department for six years, said: "The big key is independent learning.

"The console is just like a mini-computer, but fast, and you can use it to tailor-make lessons for pupils who need support or stretching.

"You are talking about access to all kinds of resources, but it would be very obvious if anyone tried to load games onto them."

The pilot is expected to run until the summer when the results will be assessed.

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