The Micro:bit
Meet the Micro:bit
The micro:bit (M:B) is a pocket sized computer (or microcontroller) with features allowing you or your students to express yourselves, be creative and bring projects to life while learning the basics of coding.
It has integrated components such as programmable LEDs, buttons, motion and temperature sensors, but also has pins in order to connect motors, sensors or any other electrical component to your micro:bit. A battery back is included with each M:B so students can disconnect their M:B from their computer and have a battery-powered project. View the Material & Supplies section for ideas of material and suppliers.
As for target grades, we have been introducing the M:B to students from elementary (cycle 2) through high school. The coding platform, Makecode, is free and compatible with all systems (iOS, Microsoft, Android) and devices (computers, tablets and cell phones). Coding with the M:B and Makecode is a great entry point for beginners, but also allows for the creation of more complex projects for intermediate and advanced coders.
About Us
The LEARN-RÉCIT team has been piloting M:B classes both online and in person for the past 3 years. Requests keep flowing in and since we can't divide ourselves, we reflected on how to support and equip teachers who wish to integrate the M:B in their teaching. We therefore developed this 8-Unit course that features activities, discussion questions, tutorials, challenges, project ideas, debugging strategies and much more! The course is structured so that it can be used by teachers OR by students.
In 3 words, the micro:bit is...
Low floor, high ceiling (Papert, 1970). Beginner or advanced, all students are capable of coding the micro:bit and it has the potential and challenge for more complex coding projects.
A majority of students find the micro:bit to be an effective first step to coding. Anyone can code the micro:bit, so it is very encouraging!
The basic kit is low cost and you can purchase peripherals according to your project or activity. School boards within the Province of Québec can purchase kits through the Digital Action Plan funding. Contact your local RÉCIT consultant for more information.
...and is availble in most schools.
Teacher Testimonials
I just wanted to thank you Chris, Carolyn and Michael for your fantastic workshop last Friday. My students absolutely loved it, as did I. It was so amazing to see my students shine while being fully engaged and challenged. I really appreciate your help and guidance. Hope to work with you again soon!
-Elisa
The kids ate it up! The level of engagement was amazing. The part I liked the best was seeing how they helped each other without needing prompting from an adult or teacher. It was so neat to see the students who are typically not as strong academically take the lead. They became the “go-to’s”, a role that they do not usually own in the classroom setting. Every time I see my students in the halls they ask me if we will be doing micro:bits next class – a complete success! I can’t wait to start integrating it into our Grade 7 Science curriculum.
-Whynter L.
The workshop exceeded my expectations. We went beyond learning how to use the micro:bit to understanding the curriculum connections. Everyone was extremely patient and knowledgeable.