What is Micro Bit?
Micro Bit is a pocket-size computer that teaches users and introduces them to how to use software and hardware. The mini device plugs into your desktop (USB lead) with features including, an LED button light display, sensors, and plugs for input and output. When the device is programmed through, users can manipulate objects connected to the device, to move in certain directions. (Micro: bit, 2023). The device teaches you how computers work, and users are able to understand how to work the processers and input/ outputs. The device costs roughly $16 and is recommended for children between ages 8 and 14.
How can it be used in the classroom to foster creativity?
MicroBit devices are great to use in the classroom as students can work collaboratively to create new ideas for the use of their devices. Students can create versions and models of different design-based thinking tasks using Micro Server motors connecting to their Microbits. For this example, our group within class created our motor to move a paddle pop stick on our model using the software and pattern we created on Microbit. This activity helps students think creatively and collaborate ideas with each other, with support from the Science and Technology Syllabus › defines problems, and designs, modifies, and follows algorithms to develop solutions ST3-3DP-T (Science & Technology NESA, 2017).
CC Madeline Hulme – Video
CC Madeline Hulme
Pedagogical Reflections
Constructionism – Microbit fosters constructionism as it takes learning and allows individuals to reconstruct rather than the transmission of their knowledge. This idea is then extended to manipulate materials to understand that learning can be most effective when parts of certain activities, learners, and their experiences are constructing a product that is meaningful (Papert, 1986).
Limitations
Limitations involving Microbit involve the classroom teacher needing to have the knowledge and understanding of how to use the device. Teachers need to have the proper tools and understating as it can be quite tedious to teach others depending on class size and resources available. Another limitation involves access to resources. As the device is costly if you are dealing with a large group the price can increase. As well as students’ needs to have access to a laptop.
References
The Micro:bit Educational Foundation. (n.d.). Micro:bit. (2023) https://microbit.org/
NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) (2017). Science & Technology K-6. https://educationstandards.nsw.edu.au/wps/portal/nesa/k-10/learning-areas/tas/science-and-technology-k-6-new-syllabus
Introduction to the BBC micro:bit, (2021), Microbit Educational Foundation https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u2u7UJSRuko
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