Micro:bit: Let's Relax a Little 'Bit'

Purpose & objective

The purpose of this session is for educators to learn how to code a Micro:bit and integrate activities that are related to SEL (Social Emotional Learning). Educators will code their Micro:bit to help them relax by slowing and regulating their breathing. Other examples and activities will be provided that connect Social Emotional Learning and the Micro:bit (i.e Step counter). This activity will be differentiated to allow teachers to use if teaching in-person, virtual or hybrid. In addition, we will share opportunities that allow educators to connect their learning with a global community to address real world problems by participating in the Do Your Bit Challenge. Note: You do not need a Micro:Bit to participate in this session; however, if you have a Micro:bit feel free to bring it to the session.

Objectives:
-You will understand what a Micro:bit is and how it works.
-You will code your Micro:bit to help you relax by slowing and regulating your breathing.
-You will reflect on your learning in the session.
-You will receive other activities to try will be provided with resources to get you started and get support.
-You will learn about additional ways to integrate the Micro:bit in authentic ways such as opportunities for design thinking/the SDG's (Sustainable Development Goals) in your classroom.

Outline

(1) Introduction/Minds On/Diagnostic: What do you know about the Micro:bit
-Using Nearpod we will take a poll to see what participants know about the Micro:bit

(2) Introduction to the Microb:bit and coding and the activity goal of the session which is to code the micro:bit into a simple digital device to help them relax by slowing/regulating their breathing. We will model each step using the Make Code option. Participants who are familiar with Tinkercad will also have the option to code using the Micro:bit found under the circuit in that program if they prefer. We will be using the Microbit Classroom (https://classroom.microbit.org/) so that we can see what participants are creating and share during the session.

(2) Action: Participants will code their device. and explore other options. For participants that finish quickly or want an extra challenge I will provide an additional activity. I will be able to share out what different people created as I am using the Micro:bit classroom (https://classroom.microbit.org/).

(3) Reflection/Consolidation: Using a Digital Collaborate board found in Neaprod we will share our learning/questions and reflect on our learning. What did you find easy/difficult or what are you wondering? What did you learn about yourself?

(4) I will then discuss/share resources and other ways that I have used the Micro:bit with design thinking, Do Your Bit Global Challenge. I will share my experiences/challenges as an educator that has taught in person, virtually and hybrid.

(5) Question/Final Thoughts/Feedback: I will provide an opportunity for participants to ask questions, share final thoughts and provide feedback.

Supporting research

List of research globally on Micro:bit:
https://microbit.org/impact/research/

https://classroom.microbit.org/createactivity/makecode

https://www.tinkercad.com/dashboard

Wenger, E., White, N., & Smith, J. D. (2009). Digital habitats: Stewarding technology for communities. Portland: CPsquare.

https://microbit.org/lessons/