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Great tutors, small class sizes and world-class equipment on his doorstep made the IoT the perfect choice for learner Arran Thomson.
The 24-year-old is on his final year of a Software Engineering (Game Development) BSc (Hons), choosing the subject because of a personal interest and growth in the software industry.
He began his course at IoT partner Blackpool and the Fylde College after returning to the UK after living abroad, completing a fast-track course to get onto the Foundation Degree and then the BSc (Hons) course.
“I’m interested in the subject and it’s where the world’s moving towards, with a lot of things being digitalised,” Arran said. “I don’t drive so it was important to have something close to me, and Blackpool and the Fylde College has great facilities without me having to travel.”
Arran, Software Engineering (Game Development) BSc (Hons)
Access to skilled tutors who take an interest in every student is a standout of the IoT, he said. “They provide great support and the group sizes are quite small – about 10 people in every class – so if you need something you can ask,” he said. “I’m enjoying the assignments we’re given and the opportunity to take subjects to business level. We’re studying HCI (Human-Computer Interaction) and using the Cube, which is a great piece of equipment. We can request to use the Cube, or any other piece of equipment, between classes and then work designing something around it.”
The Cube is just one of the cutting-edge pieces of technology bought using IoT funding – a collaborative environment for exploring new technologies, creating and problem solving.
Arran joined the IoT when it was launched in 2023 so has seen it develop as more equipment has been added.
“The improvements have been massive, from the Data Lab to the special projects like the Igloo and the Cube,” he said. “I’d definitely recommend people come and see what’s on offer because it’s only going to get better.”
