Programming with the micro:bit
CP018 Face to face course
Explore how programming at Key Stage 2 can be enhanced with physical computing and the micro:bit.
Skip to course bookingThis course will support you to develop an understanding of how the micro:bit device can be used within programming across Key Stage 2. You will investigate its full potential and understand how this small device can offer big benefits to learning in the classroom.
You will investigate how the key programming concepts of sequence, repetition, selection, and variables can be taught through practical, hands-on activities with the micro:bit.
You will also explore the full capabilities of the device, understanding its inputs and outputs, sensing abilities and radio functions. You will learn how to link the micro:bit to Scratch, and how to send messages between two micro:bits.
This course will show how computing can be enriched, with tangible computing activities, bringing abstract programming constructs to life. It will offer the opportunity to reflect upon your computing curriculum and plan how to incorporate activities using the micro:bit into your practice.
Who is it for?
Topics covered
01 | Understanding the micro:bit look at the bigger picture of the micro:bit, understanding the device, its capabilities and the extensive resources and online tools to support using the device in schools
02 | Exploring sequence and repetition with the micro:bit understand how sequence and repetition can be taught using the micro:bit and create practical projects using these constructs
03 | Exploring selection and variables with the micro:bit understand how selection and variables can be taught using the micro:bit and create practical projects using these constructs
04 | Going further with the micro:bit investigate the extra capabilities of the device, such as inputs, outputs, sensors, radio, and pins, looking at projects to use the micro:bit as a controller with Scratch and broadcast messages between devices
05 | Getting creative with the micro:bit understand how the micro:bit could be used within the curriculum to teach programming concepts, adapt provision, and enhance learning through physical computing
How long is this course?
This course is a single day involving 5 hours of learning.
How will you learn?
You’ll discuss issues with peers and an experienced course leader, comparing practice and learning strategies that are based in evidence. Personalised action planning will help you prioritise next steps for you and your school, ensuring you gain maximum benefit from the CPD.
Outcomes
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
- Understand how to teach the constructs of sequence, repetition, selection, and variables using the micro:bit and the MakeCode environment
- Understand the inputs, outputs, sensing and radio capabilities of the micro:bit and how these can be used
- Plan how to add practical teaching activities with the micro:bit into your curriculum
This course is part of Teach primary computing
Teach primary computing
Our nationally recognised qualification will support you to demonstrate your commitment to developing your own practice and to computing as a school subject.
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