#5 Introduction to coding with a microcontroller (using BBC micro:bit)

Hands-on learning with micro:bit, a microcontroller, helps youth understand the power of technology in the real world. The iCode curriculum develops competence in computer science through activities that value individual and family identity, teach social justice, and develop computer science skills and mindsets.

A micro:bit is a pocket-sized computer designed to help learners understand how software and hardware work together. It can be programmed to create games, animations, and more. Working with micro:bit help young people understand the internet of things – the devices with sensors and processing abilities that are integrated into daily life.

Marginalization occurs when individuals or groups of people are less able to do things or access basic services or opportunities. The best way to address marginalization is to change the systems and practices that perpetuate it. Technology can be a cause of marginalization, but it can also be used to alleviate marginalization.

In this video, you will see how lessons about marginalization and coding a micro:bit come together to help young people better understand the role of technology in marginalization. Together, these activities help youth feel empowered to use their computer science skills to address issues of equity and marginalization.

1. As you watch the video, think about this:

What preparation, or previous computer science concepts, might youth need in order to design and code a micro:bit?
How might the educator help youth troubleshoot their micro:bit?

2. Watch the video:

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3. Share what you noticed:

What did you notice in the video?
What did the youth share about their experience?
How might youth incorporate aspects of cultural identity, or other concepts like marginalization into their micro:bit design?

4. Teaching Culturally Relevant Computer Science

Micro:bit may offer unique affordances for youth to explore ethnic-racial identity, inquire and share about the histories, traditions, and customs of their culture. The educator will have needed to create a safe space. This lesson showcases the role of technology in marginalization. The activity involves programming to connect wires and sensors to design an artifact in the real world. It is also about learning how to begin meaningful conversations regarding social justice. The project gives them the opportunity to develop both skill sets.

5. Key Take-Away:

The micro:bit introduces youth to the relationship between hardware and software, fostering understanding of real-world technology like the Internet of Things.
iCode integrate lessons on marginalization and experiences in coding to help youth see how they could use computer science to counter marginalization.
Youth explore and express their own identity while engaging in meaningful conversations about social justice and creating their own technology-based project with a micro:bit.

Developed in collaboration with click2computerscience.org and UC ANR News & Information Outreach in Spanish. Funded by National Urban Research and Extension Center.

Resources:

Learning more about the micro:bit microcontroller and web interface allows learners to design, code, and test their own computer hardware.