Microbits in schools

Microbits are small, easy-to-use computers that are perfect for teaching core computer science concepts to students of all ages. In this article, we will explore how microbits can be used to teach sequencing, selection, iteration, and logical thinking, and how these concepts can be applied in physical computing and robotics projects.

Sequencing is the process of organizing a series of steps in a specific order. With microbits, students can learn how to sequence instructions to control the behavior of their devices. For example, a student might create a program that tells a microbit to turn on an LED light, wait for two seconds, turn off the light, and then repeat this sequence indefinitely. By learning how to sequence instructions, students can start to understand how computers execute programs and how to create simple algorithms.

Selection, also known as branching, is the process of choosing which instructions to execute based on certain conditions. With microbits, students can learn how to use selection statements such as "if" and "else" to control the flow of their programs. For example, a student might create a program that reads the temperature sensor on a microbit and displays a different message depending on whether the temperature is above or below a certain threshold. By learning how to use selection statements, students can start to understand how to make decisions and solve problems with code.

Iteration, also known as looping, is the process of repeating a set of instructions multiple times. With microbits, students can learn how to use looping statements such as "for" and "while" to execute instructions repeatedly. For example, a student might create a program that displays a countdown from 10 to 1 on the microbit's LED matrix. By learning how to use iteration, students can start to understand how to perform tasks efficiently and automate repetitive processes.

Logical thinking is the process of evaluating information and making logical conclusions based on that information. With microbits, students can learn how to use logical operators such as "and," "or," and "not" to make decisions and solve problems. For example, a student might create a program that uses the microbit's accelerometer to detect whether the device is being shaken or not, and displays a different message depending on the result. By learning how to use logical operators, students can start to understand how to analyze data and make informed decisions.

Physical computing is the process of using computers to control physical devices such as sensors, motors, and actuators. With microbits, students can learn how to use the microbit's various inputs and outputs to create interactive projects that combine code and hardware. For example, a student might create a program that uses the microbit's radio module to send and receive messages, and uses the microbit's LEDs to display the messages on a scrolling banner. By learning how to use the microbit's inputs and outputs, students can start to understand how computers can interact with the physical world.

Robotics is the process of designing, building, and programming robots to perform tasks. With microbits, students can learn how to use the microbit's inputs, outputs, and wireless capabilities to control robotic devices such as drones, robots, and automatons. For example, a student might create a program that uses the microbit's radio module to communicate with a robot and control its movements, or a program that uses the microbit's accelerometer to detect when the robot has tipped over and make it right itself. By learning how to use the microbit to control robotics, students can start to understand how to design and build intelligent machines.