�鶹������ҳ���

�鶹������ҳ��� Teach > micro:bit - the next gen

We offered a free classroom set of 30 micro:bits to primary schools across the UK as part of our �鶹������ҳ��� micro:bit - the next gen campaign. The deadline for UK primary school teachers to sign up for a free classroom set of 30 micro:bits was Monday 18 December at 5pm. If you didn't register, micro:bits are available to borrow from some libraries - check with your local library for further information - and you can also purchase them for your school.

But, what is the micro:bit used for? Read on to find out how you can teach basic coding to kids and discover the history of this amazing pocket-sized computer.

The history of the micro:bit

The first micro:bit was invented by the �鶹������ҳ��� and partners and launched in 2015, honouring the �鶹������ҳ���’s legacy of computing that stretches back to the original �鶹������ҳ��� Micro computer of the 1980s. Our original campaign aimed to put a �鶹������ҳ��� micro:bit in the hands of every Year 7 child in the country and we reached 98% of our target audience.

The original micro:bit proved a big hit with Year 7s and their equivalents in the UK nations and some of the most ambitious projects included rotating a giant observatory telescope, turning on the lights on Blackpool Tower and even sending a micro:bit into the stratosphere.

After launch, the was created. This is now a global non-profit brand which oversees the �鶹������ҳ��� micro:bit legacy and continues to provide them to children, educators, and anyone who wishes to learn about coding.

Since 2015, 6.5 million micro:bits have been manufactured and sold with an estimated 42 million children learning digital skills with the micro:bit globally. Micro:bit projects are now taking place in over 60 countries, working with a range of different partners including national broadcasters, governments and NGOs.

What is �鶹������ҳ��� micro:bit - the next gen?

�鶹������ҳ��� micro:bit - the next gen is a brand new campaign and a partnership between the Micro:bit Educational Foundation, �鶹������ҳ��� Education and Nominet, as well as other tech and education partners.

We're relaunching the micro:bit in the UK with a focus on empowering primary school children with the digital skills to understand the world around them and to shape their own future.

The campaign launched with a free micro:bit giveaway to primary schools across the whole of the UK, a donation made possible by funding from Nominet. Registration closed on Monday 18 December 2023.

The micro:bit is a pocket-sized computer designed to inspire creative thinking in children. It can be programmed in many different ways and has multiple uses.

Through the micro:bit, children are encouraged to explore ideas using real code. The device provides an authentic experience of the interaction between hardware and software and gives children practical computer knowledge. Using it, they can see how what they do with the code on-screen has a direct impact on the device they're holding in their hand.

The hardware

The micro:bit hardware has been developed since it was created in 2015, with the current iteration (V2) boasting enhanced features which will play a part in our new campaign.

The device contains a range of sensors, connectors, and inputs that offer multiple ways of using the device. These features include:

• An LED display that also doubles as a light sensor
• An accelerometer that detects motion and movement
• A microphone and a speaker
• Radio and Bluetooth connectivity
• Input buttons and a touch sensor
• Connecting pins that allow it to be slotted into compatible devices or wired into a circuit

The micro:bit has been used to create a raft of exciting events and activities - both small and large - not just in the UK but all around the world. These have included:

• Raising a bridge in Copenhagen to bring traffic to a halt
• Rotating the telescope at Jodrell Bank Observatory in Macclesfield
• Turning the lights on at Blackpool Tower
• Creating an 'E-Mom' virtual desktop assistant to monitor children’s posture when working
• Creating fitness trackers, virtual pets, remote control vehicles, and much more besides

The Microsoft website provides a simple drag-and-drop coding interface similar to other coding platforms that are also taught in schools.

Programs can be easily downloaded onto the micro:bit via a USB connection, and the micro:bit can then run under battery power, enabling it to be used in all manner of ways and in conjunction with other devices.

Examples of some of the projects possible with a micro:bit include:

• – shake the micro:bit to show a random number
• – shake to show rock, paper, or scissors; two micro:bits can be used together to play the game
• – use several micro:bits together, sending and receiving radio signals, to make a treasure hunting game
• – a selection of toys that can be built using the micro:bit, if you add extra components or machinery

Please be aware that the above links will take you away from the �鶹������ҳ��� and redirect you to the Micro:bit Educational Foundation's website

More from �鶹������ҳ��� micro:bit - the next gen