by: Linette Godley

Coding Review- Micro:bit

Introduction

The microbit is a really great tool that is beginner friendly and diverse in terms of activities students can do. It is a great introduction or growing tool for students to develop their coding skills in a dynamic way. The micro:bit is a device that students can connect online by going to a website and programming it in a specific way to reach certain goals. This can look like making a “love meter”, making a heart that flashes on and off, etc. The website itself has tutorials, free online learning resources and specific projects that students can work on. For educators, this resource is especially helpful because of the many learning resources available, and the tutorials. The micro:bit is equipped with an LED matrix, buttons, motion sensors, and Bluetooth connectivity, the micro:bit allows students to build interactive projects, making coding engaging. If the class is to complete one specific goal with the micro:bit, they can work towards it together using the tutorial. The input output that students get in seeing the fruit of their coding in a tangible way is the most effective part about the program. The educational kits that are offered from micro:bit are also equipped with lesson plans which makes it easy for teachers to integrate coding into their lessons and ultimately the curriculum. On the website there are also projects that are already designed that teachers can use, which adhere to curriculum guidelines/standards ensuring that teachers can use these. The micro:bit allows students to explore real world applications of coding from the design of simple animations or more complex robotics.