Teacher Benefits

➕ Benefits for your class


Computer Science becomes more relatable

By taking part in I’m a Computer Scientist students can:

  • See real-life examples and applications of STEM
  • Learn about the transferability of computer science and STEM qualifications
  • Connect with real people working in computing to discover shared interests and experiences
  • See computer scientists as normal people (not ‘elite geniuses’) with hobbies, pets, and families

Read case studies from teachers who have taken part ❯



Supporting students’ science capital

Science capital is a measure of a person’s personal relationship with computer science. It relates to how much they see the subject as ‘for them’. Read more about science capital ❯

I’m a Computer Scientist supports the science capital teaching approach:



Students discover new careers



Every student is equal

  • Text-based live Chats mean that all students have an equal chance of being answered:
    • It helps [to see] students in a different light. Some who are normally very quiet in school became very active in the chat.” – Teacher
  • Students gain confidence through asking questions – they see their ideas belong, inspiring them to engage with computer science, in further study

Read more about the advantages of text-based interactions ❯



Accessible to every school

  • Schools within 15 minutes’ drive of a university are twice as likely to receive a visit from a university computer scientist than those 30 minutes or more away
  • I’m a Computer Scientist is online, so you can access it from anywhere

Read more about how distance matters ❯
Learn more about our commitment to underserved and widening participation schools ❯



🎓 Benefits for teachers


It’s backed by research:

  • I’m a Computer Scientist supports the Science Capital Teaching Approach
  • Taking part supports students’ science capital
  • It’s secure, safe and you’re in control: Only students who’ve been given access by their teacher can login to the Chat
  • No personal details are shared on the site, and student content is moderated. Read our safeguarding statement ❯
  • You get to see which students have logged in and what questions they’ve asked.
  • You can download transcripts of live Chats


Everything’s designed for easy, online access:

  • Signing up is quick and easy
  • Students can log in at any time to read computer scientists’ profiles and send follow-up questions in Ask
  • Students create their own username using a link you create. This will take them around 10 minutes; send it to them the day before your chat, or earlier
  • You book chats for times that suit you and your students


It’s free for state-maintained schools:

  • Places are fully funded for state-maintained schools
  • That means that most schools don’t have to pay
  • Non-state-maintained schools may be asked to pay a fee to take part
    Find out more ❯

Teachers: Sign up to take part ❯


Find out more:

Teachers homepage ❯
Student safeguarding and privacy ❯
Questions? Contact support@imascientist.org.uk