Why is integration of Physical Computing important?

Physical computing is revolutionising the way we approach education, especially in STEM fields. It's about bringing the abstract concepts of computing into the physical world, making learning interactive, engaging, and, most importantly, fun. If you're looking to integrate physical computing into your classroom, here are the top five strategies to do so effectively, leveraging tools like micro:bit for makerspace, hackathon, and more.

1. Start with BBC micro:bit and do your:bit challenge

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The BBC micro:bit is an affordable and easy-to-use hardware that's perfect for introducing students to the world of physical computing. It's a small, programmable device that enables kids to create everything from robots to musical instruments. By starting with micro:bit, i recommend a every can make micro:bit approach making it hands-on and student-centric. Here are 3 step guide to get started.

1. Introduce basic programming concepts using the makecode.
2. Encourage students to work on simple projects like creating a emotion badge or dice game
3. Use the 'Everyone Can Make' Desgin Thinking mindset, ensuring that every student, regardless of their skill level, can participate.

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2. Incorporate Makerspace in Libraries

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Libraries in schools provide students with a physical space to explore, research, read and also create through hands-on activities. They are  in fostering 'Resource Centers' and 'Creative learning Spaces .' Equip your schools with various tools and materials, including micro:bits, for a range of projects.

Action Steps:

1. Set up a dedicated area for making area in your library with posters.
2.Just like books issues tools like sensors and actuators to student based on project for building and creating with micro:bit and other materials.
3. Organize Hackathons to Spark Innovation . Hackathons aren't just for tech companies; they can be a fantastic way for students to engage in 'Innovation in education.'

Organising a 'Hackathon for kids' around themes like UN Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDG) can help students apply their physical computing skills to solve real-world problems. Here is a video link below for a hackathon competition  conducted between Cognita Schools,UAE

1. Plan a UNSDG-based hackathon focusing on 'Middle School' ICT or MYP Design.
2. Encourage students to use microbit and other tools to develop working prototypes addressing the hackathon theme.
3. Facilitate collaboration and teamwork during the event by mixing students between grades, sections or even schools.
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3. Integrate AI and Robotics into Lessons

Using programmable robots and AI tools in conjunction with micro:bit can take your physical computing curriculum to the next level. This not only includes 'Robotics/STEM' but also introduces basic AI concepts in a tangible way. My top two recomendation are Husky Lens from DFrobot and Quarky from Stempedia

1. Introduce 5 big ideas of AI4K12 by David Tourketzky
2. Explore basic AI concepts through interactive projects, like voice recognition or machine learning through quick draw or teachable machine.
3. Align these activities with 'Learning through Make'  be keeping them solution driven.

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4. Embrace Learning through Make via Creative Approaches

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) offer a fantastic framework for applying physical computing projects to real-world issues. By incorporating these goals into your curriculum with AI opens multiple pathways for you teach students not only about technology but also about global citizenship and responsibility.

Action Steps:

1. Introduce students to the UN SDGs and discuss how technology can help achieve these goals.2. Encourage projects that align with specific SDGs, like creating a device to measure air quality.
2. Schools can utilize low cost tools like Databot
3. 3.Showcase student projects in school exhibitions or online platforms to raise awareness.

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Conclusion:

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Integrating physical computing into your classroom doesn't have to be daunting. With these strategies, you can create a dynamic learning environment that encourages 'Hands-on learning,' 'Educational toys,' and 'Learning through play.' Whether it’s through the use of microbits in a makerspace, organizing a hackathon, diving into robotics, or aligning projects with the UN SDGs, the opportunities for 'Innovation in education' are endless. Embrace these approaches, and watch your students thrive as they build, create, and learn in ways they never imagined possible.

How to integrate Physical computing and align to ICT Standards

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By mapping the UN SDG Goals to your ICT curriculum learning outcomes helps teachers to easily integrate real world context and application with Learning Outcomes.

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