We have several different supports running here in the centre aimed at helping you succeed.
From one-to-one drop-in support, group-based sessions to targeted supports for difficult modules or skills that will help you progress, we offer different ways of helping students as we know everyone has their own unique way of learning.
Drop-in sessions
Starting in Week 3 of each semester, we have daily drop-in hours where students can visit the centre without an appointment and get help with ICT topics.
The sessions are run by trained past students of the main ICT courses and are completely free. All tutors are competent in the core programming languages taught here in UL and other ICT subjects.
For an up-to-date timetable and listings of our tutors’ areas of expertise, please visit our ICTLC Brightspace site.
Targeted group sessions
Sometimes the support needed isn’t with specific module content but with related skills we have assumed that students have. Or sometimes students need to get a chance to practice module content differently.
We use our targeted session support to offer these opportunities to students. From help with databases, Java, and Machine Learning, our targeted sessions are designed for current student needs.
For a list of targeted sessions this semester, visit our ICT Learning Centre page on the Digital Learner support Hub (DLSH).
Peer-to-peer supports
Peer-Supported Learning Groups (PSLG)
For historically difficult modules, we run weekly group-based supports. Here, trained past students who have excelled in the module will guide you and your classmates through short exercises where you will work together to solve problems related to the module material.
By working together with your peers, you’ll deepen your understanding of core concepts and improve your confidence by learning this material with other students. For a list of the modules using PSLG this semester please visit our ICT Learning Centre page on the Digital Learner support Hub (DLSH).
Paired Programming (PP)
Based on the proven industry method for increasing productivity and learning in software development. PP is an in-lab learning method where you work with a partner to solve a programming problem in a structured way.
Swapping between two roles, you are either the Driver writing the code or the Navigator reviewing it and engaging in a dialog with the Driver about where to go next in solving the problem. PP promotes discussion and improves understanding as you both learn together.
Currently, we offer PP support to the core first-year programming modules in the Department of Electronics and Computer Engineering. Additional online content for these PP modules can be found on our ICT Learning Centre page on the Digital Learner support Hub (DLSH).
Online learning content
We also offer several short topic-based supports online. This includes Fundamentals of Web Design, Python Programming and an Introduction to C++ programming. To access this content and more, please visit our ICTLC Brightspace site.
Prepare and Repeat (PAR) Support
Sometimes things don’t work out. When that’s a core 1st semester programming module, it can feel like an uphill battle working through the 2nd semester. PAR is a chance to revisit the fundamentals of the subject early in the 2nd semester so that you won’t feel like you’re falling behind while learning new concepts.
If you got a C3 or less in the Autumn exams, we will offer you PAR support at the start of week 3 in the 2nd semester. If you haven’t been contacted during week 3 but feel you could do with the help, please contact us at ictlc@ul.ie.
Programming competitions
Robocode
This is a programming competition for first-year undergraduates. Using Java, you program a virtual robot tank to engage in battle with other tanks. Last man standing means your robot needs to be smart enough to find and hit the enemy while avoiding incoming fire. Only one team from each institution is allowed, so the ICTLC runs mentoring sessions and our own internal competition to decide the team that represents UL in February.
This activity gives students the chance to develop and expand their reasoning, planning and programming skills and looks good on a CV. If you’re interested, please contact us at ictlc@ul.ie before the end of the Autumn semester.
Still not sure which support you need?
Simply reach out to us at ictlc@ul.ie or drop in to our centre here in the Computer Science building, room CS1-046 - we’re here to help.
