LEARN, Kids Code Jeunesse, SWLSB, and LBPSB have embarked on a micro:bit pilot project for the 2018-19 school year. A dozen classrooms will receive class sets of the micro:bit to work with for the year. Kids Code Jeunesse graciously donated the boards and our first meeting was a two-day professional development workshop to get the teachers and consultants comfortable with the device and their integration. Most of the work was on shifting mindsets with innovative tools during the two great days of learning and collaborating. See more of our day in the pictures below.
Micro:bit Pilot: First Days of PD
1) The workshop exceeded my expectations. We went beyond learning how to use the Micro:Bit to understanding the curriculum connections. Everyone was extremely patient and knowledgeable.
2) I anticipate that they will enjoy creating, once they understood the features (possibilities).
3) Some students will find getting the technology to work frustrating. The website with the different programs (varying in complexity) could alleviate this issue.
4) I think I will need the most help reviewing how the Micro:Bit works as I am afraid that I may have forgotten information.
5) My role is to connect to the curriculum and to teach the students some of the features, having them explore possibilities and feeling comfortable with the technology.
I am glad to have this opportunity and am looking forward to uncovering the thinking that students will be doing as they use micro:bits.