This course is aimed at teachers who are complete novices in physical computing. The course introduces the micro:bit – an example of a Physical Computing device designed for young learners, enabling them to go from plugging it in to uploading their first program on the device within 5-10 minutes.

This course explains how the micro:bit can be used to design Input-Process-Output (IPO) systems to solve real-world problems. The micro:bit is programmed using the MakeCode IDE, which supports block-based coding which is ideal for beginners and can also be programmed using MicroPython for more advanced learners.

This course explores how the blocks in the MakeCode environment work and how to effectively combine them. It also includes exemplar projects that teachers can use and adapt.

1.5 hour presentation, or 2 hour with ‘live’ practical hands on exercises/build-along learning outcomes:

• Understand the hardware present on a micro:bit including IPO essentials
• Understand the basic electronics present in PBL projects
• Understand how the hardware relates to IPO as a system design tool
• Understand the importance of making in PC/PBL
• Understand how ASP define PC/PBL and how it covers the curriculum
• Understand and use the toolchain and workflow when programming a micro:bit based artefact
• Understand how computational techniques are applied through MakeCode
• Confidently apply all the computational techniques required to solve a problem
• Understand how design, creativity, 6Cs and collaboration play a role in PC/PBL 
• Understand how other physical computing devices differ and offer alternative functionality