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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.

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Programming Computing Key stage 1 Primary certificate
Face to face course 90 minutes

  • Thornton-Cleveleys 11 October 15:45—11 October 2023
  • Birmingham 12 October 09:00—12 October 2023
  • Gateshead 12 October 13:30—12 October 2023
  • Warrington 17 October 15:30—17 October 2023
  • Ipswich 23 October 09:30—23 October 2023
  • Shrewsbury 25 October 09:00—25 October 2023
  • Chesterfield 6 November 10:30—6 November 2023
  • Leicester 7 November 16:00—7 November 2023
  • Leeds 9 November 10:30—9 November 2023
  • Ashton-under-Lyne 14 November 09:00—14 November 2023
  • Bradford 14 November 11:00—14 November 2023
  • Aylesbury 20 November 10:00—20 November 2023
  • Telford 21 November 14:00—21 November 2023
  • Stoke-on-Trent 28 November 10:30—28 November 2023
  • Oxford 30 November 10:30—30 November 2023
  • Warrington 30 November 15:45—30 November 2023
  • Langley 30 November 16:00—30 November 2023
  • Sheffield 30 November 16:00—30 November 2023
  • Brighton 14 December 15:45—14 December 2023
  • Bradford 7 March 11:00—7 March 2024
  • Bradford 7 May 11:00—7 May 2024

Physical 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:
  • Understand the impact physical computing has on engaging students in computing
  • Know how Bee-Bots can be used to teach early programming concepts
  • Understand how Teach Computing Curriculum units can be delivered with Bee-Bots

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This course is from the National Centre for Computing Education and is delivered by STEM Learning.

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