Physical computing kits - KS1 BeeBots
CP256 Face to face course
Explore physical computing in Key Stage 1 using Bee-Bots and how the Teach Computing Curriculum can be used to engage students.
Skip to course bookingPhysical computing involves programming digital devices to sense and interact with the world – an engaging alternative to screen-only activity. It touches upon many areas of the computing curriculum, bringing subject knowledge and programming skills to engaging and enjoyable classroom activities. The Bee-Bot is an easy-to-use programmable floor robot. Its bright colours and simple layout make it ideal for introducing physical computing in Key Stage 1 and teaching early programming skills.
During this CPD, you’ll explore how Bee-Bots can be used in the classroom to teach simple algorithms and programming. You’ll find out how to use the device to introduce children to programming, why physical computing devices help pupils understand debugging and explore how to use the device with children. The CPD will help you gain confidence in teaching using Bee-Bots, and the free Teach Computing Curriculum.
The National Centre for Computing Education has developed a Bee-Bot physical computing kit that can be borrowed from your local Computing Hub, following your CPD.
Who is it for?
This course is aimed at classroom teachers and subject leaders of computing, looking to develop physical computing approaches in the KS1 classroom.
How long is this course?
This course consists of one 90 minute session.
How will you learn?
Hands-on experiential learning with the collaborative support of your peers, led by an experienced Professional Development Leader. The course will model teaching approaches that can be taken back to the classroom.
Outcomes
By the end of this course you will be able to:
- Recognise the impact physical computing has on engaging all pupils in computing
- Understand how Bee-Bots can be used to teach early programming concepts and computational thinking.
- Understand how the Teach Computing Curriculum KS1 units can be delivered with Bee-Bots.
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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