The micro: bit was given away free to millions of students across the UK in 2016 as part of the BBC’s Make it Digital program, in an effort to solve the growing skills shortage in the technology field. It was hoped that this ingenious little gadget would encourage a new generation of tech pioneers to embrace digital innovation.
But what exactly is it?
Simply put, the BBC micro: bit is a tiny, programmable computer with a lot of features. It has an ARM processor, a motion sensor, a built-in compass, a USB port, 25 LED lights, buttons, and Bluetooth. As a result, the micro: bit can be used to make a wide range of projects.
The advantages of incorporating micro: bits into the classroom
Technology is yet another tool in a teacher’s toolbox, but it can be used in really creative ways to motivate and inform children. Report on the State of Technology in Education, 2016. Here are a few advantages of incorporating microbit lessons in the classroom
Boost participation
The micro: entire bit’s aim is to encourage higher levels of participation and innovation in a new generation of young people, with infinite possibilities for what it can be used for.
Prepare students for work.
The easy-to-use micro: bit makes learning with technology enjoyable, encouraging students to participate in STEM subjects and increasing their potential employability.
Adaptable to all levels of education
The micro: ease bit’s of use and flexibility make it a great place to start for early digital engagement. However, the more you hack, the more you can accomplish. It’s also a useful tool for more experienced coders, programmers, musicians, scientists, and engineers. It’s also a good opportunity for students to take more programming courses.
Computational reasoning should be emphasized in the curriculum.
It’s not all about programming when it comes to the educational advantages of the micro: bit. Across disciplines, the device can be used to instill computational thought, improved learning, and problem-solving. These abilities are critical in providing students with the resources they need to succeed in our rapidly changing and dynamic economy.
Boost retention and learning
Students learn best when they are fully engaged in their studies, which can be accomplished by engagement and application. With the micro: bit, students will get their hands dirty and transform from digital knowledge users to designers and creators. They would be able to remember knowledge more easily as a result of their successful learning.
Encourage students to work together to learn.
The micro: bit is a hands-on platform that can be used to develop more multi-sensory classrooms that emphasize communication, creativity, and teamwork skills.
There is no need to make a significant investment.
A class collection of micro: bits can be bought for around the same price as a laptop, which is critical for inadequate technology in schools. The micro: bit can also be used to access free learning materials and programming environments on any internet-connected computer, in addition to your existing package.
