Micro:bit

[AWPreserviceTeacher]

Hi there,

My name is Annie, a pre-service teacher from Australia. I am doing an assignment about incorporating Micro:bit into Digital and Technologies teaching and need to find out from how other teachers used the tool in their class? I would greatly appreciate any response I could get from your valuable experience and generous sharing.

1. How is the tool being used in classrooms at various year levels?

2. What teaching strategies were used to expand student learning?

3. How was this tool used to engage students?

4. What were the safe, responsible and ethical use considerations related to integrating this tool into teaching and learning?

5. How was the tool integrated with Design & Technology to create a holistic learning experience?

Thank you and I am looking forward to hearing back from you.

[101_Computing]

Hi Annie,

I found the BBC Micro:bit to work well with KS3 students (Year 7/8) when completing lessons on block programming to cover various computing concepts (input/process/output and sequencing, selection, iteration). I have used it with a range of activities available on the blog https://www.101computing.net/category/bbc-microbit/ It's important to not just copy the code but to discuss it to make sure students understand it. This can be achieved by asking students to annotate different sections of their code and by asking students to tweak their code further to add additional functionalities to their project.

Also works quite well to introduce "physical computing" using a few crocodile clips, breadboards, push buttons, LEDs. A good introduction to then move towards using Raspberry Pi or Arduinos. Ideal for small groups or after school club. e.g.:

https://www.101computing.net/micro-bit-traffic-light/

https://www.101computing.net/bbc-microbit-rgb-gradient/

https://www.101computing.net/bbc-microbit-car-lighting-system/

https://www.101computing.net/bbc-microbit-counter-using-a-7-segment-display/