links open in new tab


Physical Computing - BBC Microbit

 

 

What is a BBC Microbit?

The BBC Microbit is an ultra small computer that provides a physical computing platform for students. It comes complete with an array of LED lights, buttons, a compass, motion detector and Blue tooth connectivity. This device enables students' online coding skills to connect with something physical in the real world. You might have heard of the BBC Microbit before as it was the focus of a 1:1 roll-out to students in selected years in schools across the United Kingdom. What this means for NSW classrooms, is a virtual mountain of existing resources to get you started!

The BBC Microbit up close

Why would I use the BBC Microbit in my classroom?

The Microbit is an extremely versatile piece of technology and can add a technical and computational element to many subject areas. Computational thinking is especially important as it has been identified as a key future skill and is a highlighted addition to forthcoming syllabuses in Science and Technology and Technology Mandatory. When developing and compiling a program for their Microbit, students will think computationally to ensure their device performs the desired task as expected.

But the biggest draw-card of the Microbit is its simplicity. There are no programs or drivers to install as the coding interface is web based. In addition the graphical coding language is easy for students to navigate and delivers almost instant success.

With the ability to also be programmed with text-based Python, there is the potential to extend the device to students in upper stage 3, as well as stages 4 and 5.

Together, this means you can apply the Microbit from stages 2 to 5, making it a versatile device that totally redefines physical computing on a budget.

Hooking up accessories to the BBC Microbit

Curriculum Connections

In addition to coding, computational thinking and working with electricity outcomes, the flexible nature of the Microbit means they have application across the curriculum. Create a smart farm in Agriculture or Science, construct a computerised scoreboard in PDHPE, develop customised instruments in Music or even design an LED wearable in Textiles and Design.

There are many resources available to help you get started with the BBC Microbit. The majority of these sites are developed in the United Kingdom but still have application in Australian schools. Here are our top selections:

  1. Getting Started - Check the videos and resources on this page to motivate yourself and your students and into coding in no time. In addition, make sure you download the quick start and safety guide for ready reference.

  2. Let's Code - Connect directly with the range of coding interfaces available. To ensure you don't get overwhelmed, we recommended visiting the 'Let's Code' section first and following the introductory tutorials.

  3. Teaching Resources - These resources are created by teachers, for teachers and there are a range of resources to suit many classrooms and curriculum areas. This is a great place to begin to understand the full potential of the Microbit and to see if it is right for your students and classroom.

Tips & Tricks in the eT4L
(typical school) environment

To transfer your created code to a Microbit, you will need a computer running either Windows, MacOS or ChromeOS. There are no barriers to connecting the Microbit within the eT4L environment. Students just transfer the code they develop to their connected Microbit, just like it was a USB storage device.

iOS and Android tablet and phone devices can also be used to transfer programs to your BBC Microbit using a Bluetooth connection. Find out how to connect your Microbit to your phone or tablet. This process is sometimes a little inconsistent so the T4L team recommends using a direct USB connection with a computer for best results.

Pairing the Microbit with an iPad

Links to Future Focused Learning

Microbits support several of the future learning themes. As a prototyping tool, it enables the experiential classroom. Used in a group setting, they support collaboration, and with many self guided resources, they also suit a guided or independent mode of learning.

Students coding the BBC Microbit

Stories from Schools

Year 7 and 8 Distance Education students from across New South Wales have been involved in a pilot project with the Microbit. Each student in the program received a Microbit and will be using it within their Technology Mandatory course. This innovative and pioneering project is being led by teacher Sam Nelson, and the T4L team will keep you posted on their progress throughout 2017 and 2018. One link Sam has reccomended is to this complete Introduction to Computer Science with the Microbit course using Microsoft's MakeCode, definitiely worth a look!

Comparable Products

The Microbit is a physical computer with similar functionality to an Arduino Micro-controller, in a smaller and less functional package. The Microbit is a great stepping stone for students who would then be able to complete more advanced and bespoke projects using an Arduino.

Little Bits and Makey-Makeys would provide a similar introduction to prototyping and circuits and may be more appropriate for Stages 1 and 2. Information on the above three tools can be found our T4Lengage site.

The standard BBC Microbit kit

Safety considerations

When using any technology in the classroom please make sure you:

  • Read/comply with all manufacturer’s instructions for safe use
  • Observe and comply with age range recommendations
  • Consult your school's WHS representative
  • Consult the Equipment Safety in Schools (ESIS) register to check for implementation advice

In addition make sure you consult the Safety Guide compiled by the Microbit team.

Stage Suggestions: 2-5

Device Compatibility: Compatible with the majority of devices

For further information contact the T4L team: T4LNews@det.nsw.edu.au

NSW DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION - INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DIRECTORATE