MicroBits are small programmable computers that can be used in a wide range of educational settings to enhance learning (Harris & Marlow, 2020). MircoBits are designed to assist teaching students how to code. Within a classroom, microbits can be used to enhance learning in a variety of subjects across the curriculum, STEM subjects as well as art, history, and language arts (Karsenti & Dumouchel, 2018).
One way that microbits can be used to enhance learning is by allowing students to create their own projects. For example, students can use microbits to create games, animations, and simulations, which can help them understand complex concepts in science and mathematics (BBC Micro:bit, 2021). They can also use microbits to build robots, which can be programmed to perform various tasks, such as being coded to water a plant when the soil is dry (Proulx & Krajcik, 2018). As seen in the video below, this MircoBit has been coded to read the soils dampness and water water soil as needed until the reading of soil dampness hits the target. This task would take primary students a unit of work, however in secondary classes such as design and technology, this could be used as an introductory week of lessons.
MircoBits do also habe pedagogical challenges that need to be addressed. One challenge is ensuring that all students have access to the necessary technology and equipment (Sharples et al., 2017), such as a laptop, and resources for the project. Another challenge is ensuring that teachers have the necessary skills and training to effectively integrate microbits into their curriculum (Harris & Marlow, 2020). Additionally, teachers must be prepared to provide adequate support and guidance to students as they work with microbits, particularly in the early stages when students are learning how to program (Proulx & Krajcik, 2018).
In conclusion, microbits can be a powerful tool for enhancing learning in a school setting, particularly in STEM subjects (Karsenti & Dumouchel, 2018). By allowing students to create their own projects and collaborate with each other, microbits can help students develop important skills and gain a deeper understanding of complex concepts.
References:
BBC Micro:bit. (2021). Home. Retrieved from https://microbit.org/
Harris, B., & Marlow, M. (2020). Exploring the potential of micro:bit for primary school children. International Journal of Computer Science Education in Schools, 3(2), 24-35.
Karsenti, T., & Dumouchel, G. (2018). The micro:bit as an educational tool: A review of the literature. Technology, Pedagogy and Education, 27(1), 99-115.
Proulx, J., & Krajcik, J. (2018). Using microcontrollers and sensors to support science learning: A review of the literature. Journal of Science Education and Technology, 27(1), 1-15.
Sharples, M., Adams, A., Alozie, N., Ferguson, R., FitzGerald, E., Gaved, M., ... & Whitelock, D. (2017). Innovating pedagogy 2017
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