Sam Said:

Hi I live in Scotland and I need some help in IT?

We Answered:

You are being too ambitious wanting to know EVERYTHING. There is just too much of it with modern computers, although there wasn't when I started with them forty-odd years ago. Nowadays, every single one of the following computer topics is so detailed that scarcely anybody could fully understand three of them, and not many could fully understand even two.

1. The process of determining the binary format of the low-level instructions that a new processor will execute.

2. The process of designing, then fabricating, single processor chips with millions of transistors on them.

3. The assembly of a working computer from its cabinet, processor, video screen, disc drive, printer/scanner, telephone connection, and so on.

4. The art of writing "compilers" which turn high-level programs expressed in Basic, C or C++ into low-level instructions.

5. The preparation and marketing of the hundreds of executable programs which form a popular "operating system" such as Windows XP.

6. The preparation and marketing of commercial "user applications" written in Basic, C or newer languages.

7. The competent use of manufacturer-supplied utility programs such as word processing packages, spreadsheets, and e-mail programs.

That's just off the top of my head! When you start looking into everything a computer actually does, especially when it's connected to the internet, I'll bet there are another dozen fields of study, each one just as detailed, and just as separate from each other. Most courses outside university concentrate on number 7, although a few might be available for 3, usually called computer engineering or hardware support. Most people learn numbers 6 and 5 (which you say is your ambition) on the job, by starting work for a firm which does them.

I live in Scotland too, and I have worked in it (doing IT) for most of my life.

Felicia Said:

I'm considering living in Scotland and need some feedback (I've never been). How are the teaching jobs there?

We Answered:

You'd be welcomed with open arms in Scotland! We're a very friendly and hospitable race. Yes, there are some "not-so-nice" areas here - but that applies to EVERYWHERE, not just Scotland. I don't know much about the teaching situation, but I would assume that you would have no problem finding employment, especially with your qualifications. Good luck to you and your wee boy!

EDIT: ANGEL: That's a bit rich coming from you! Pot, kettle and black springs straight to mind! I've read a few of your posts and for some reason, you are VERY racist towards Scots. Maybe one did you wrong in the past - you don't have to blame a whole bloody NATION!!

Barry Said:

Good Ideas For Teaching Kids About Dinosaurs?

We Answered:

Land Before Time movies are entertaining and they learn a little about the types of dinosaurs and what happened to them...my son and other boys I know usually respond well to the movie.

Also, look into some museums in your town...there is usually one that has dinosaur displays and probably have lots of info and activities you can do...maybe even a field trip is possible...sheck with your school...

Places like Scholar's Choice or Mrs. Tiggy Winkles has lots of cool stuff too. Check it out!

Good luck!

Gene Said:

At school in Scotland which German book is used to teach German to beginers?

We Answered:

Klasse - Publisher is Oxford University Press
hope this helps =)

Anthony Said:

Should School Children Be Used As Guinea Pigs...?

We Answered:

Children are always being used as test subjects in school. Teaching methods and focus are constantly changing with technology, and education has to keep up with the learning trends. Gone is Dick and Jane, and Dr. Seuss has gone video. Trying new things to stimulate learning is not wrong, and the children like a fresh approach in their adventures through the textbooks. Educators do need to consult the experts on the studies done that show possible negative effects on muscles/wrists, eyestrain, attention and concentration, and inactivity when children play video games for long periods of time. They also need to include lots of physical activity, art, and music to give their children well-rounded brainwork. It will be interesting to see where this leads.

Tyler Said:

teacher training in scotland? good bad?

We Answered:

Financial support is dealt with by the local authority where you live before starting university, so that will still be addressed through the English system.

Your qualification will be recognised in the whole of the UK, and similarly if you complete a probationary year in Scotland, this will count as passing induction for English purposes.

Do read the following websites

Monica Said:

In Scotland and Ireland do children learn Gaelic in school?

We Answered:

Irish is taught as a separate subject in the vast majority of schools in Ireland. A small number of independent schools (known as Gaelscoils) teach all subjects (apart from English), through the medium of Gaelic.

Scot's Gaelic is not taught in most Scottish schools, as far as I am aware, although there may be schools in the Glasgow area and in the highlands that have it as part of the curriculum. More info here: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/ArtsCu…