The huge popularity of football is being harnessed in the classroom through computer software that allows schoolchildren to become coaches.
CoachFX can be used by pupils to devise their own drills for PE lessons, but is also intended for cross-curricular use. The software combines the use of animation, illustrations and digital video.
It has been piloted with Ardrossan Academy Higher PE pupils.
At Clydebank’s Edinbarnet Primary, meanwhile, it has been put to broader use. The angles of the football pitch, for example, have helped pupils understand mathematical concepts.
Teacher John Paton thinks the software has uses in PE, maths, health, writing and ICT. “The pupils were involved in the planning and implementation of their own lessons, which leads to greater understanding,” he added.
Those behind the software also believe it will be useful in working with those young people not in education, employment or training.
CoachFX is based in Glasgow and has been used by Rangers and Celtic football clubs in their community education programmes.
* www.coachfx.com
