Check out CodeJoy’s new asynchronous video course, “Micro:bit in the Wild!”
Why is CodeJoy exploring Environmental Literacy?
At CodeJoy, we believe that environmental literacy is a cornerstone of education that empowers students to make informed decisions about their relationship with the natural world. The "Micro:bit in the Wild" course integrates computer science with hands-on environmental activities, fostering a deep connection between learners and their surroundings. By engaging with tools like the BBC micro:bit, students can explore real-world phenomena such as weather patterns, animal migrations, and ecological systems, while developing critical thinking and coding skills. This interdisciplinary approach aligns with standards from organizations like NAAEE and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, emphasizing the importance of environmental stewardship and sustainable practices.
Environmental literacy goes beyond knowledge; it cultivates skills like problem-solving, collaboration, and leadership. Research shows that environmental education enhances academic performance across STEM subjects while inspiring civic engagement and environmentally responsible behaviors. Through this course, CodeJoy aims to equip educators with the resources to inspire students to become active participants in addressing global challenges and the challenges that affect students in their own backyard.
By combining technology and nature-based learning, we hope to spark curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong commitment to preserving the planet for future generations. In partnership with the Infosys Foundation USA, we are proud to now present the asynchronous video course version of this experience!
Course Quick Facts
- Title: Micro:bit in the Wild
- Length: 3 hours 21 minutes
- Cost: FREE!
- Needed to Complete the Course:
- Internet connected device
- Registered on the Foundation's digital learning platform, Pathfinders Online Institute website (see instructions below)
Course Description
This course explores environmental literacy through nine hands-on activities using the BBC micro:bit, a programmable device for interacting with the environment. Designed for 3rd-12th graders of all coding levels, the course includes video tutorials, sample code, activity guides, and two free micro:bits shipped to your home. Participants will learn to code, engage with nature, and connect with the work of influential naturalists.
What Makes This Course Different
- Activities are FUN
- Computer Science + Outdoor Learning
- High production value makes watching easy
- Includes instructional materials and printables
- Alignment to UN SDGs, NAAEE, and Pennsylvania STEELs standards.
Course Highlights
- 2 free micro:bits shipped to your house! *For Public School Educators
- 9 micro:bit activities
- Naturalist spotlights on astrophysicist Carl Segan, biologist Robin Wall Kimmerer, oceanographer Jacques Cousteau, photographer Jaime Rojo and more!
Who Should Attend
- 3rd-12th teachers interested in environmental literacy and/or computer science
- Beginner to intermediate micro:bit users
- micro:bit users seeking something new
- Environmental educators seeking to incorporate a versatile science and engineering tool
Free Hardware!
- Receive 2 free micro:bit V2s shipped to your home! *For Public School Educators
- Just fill out the pre-survey to provide your shipping address.
- NOTE: Free hardware is ONLY for public and charter school educators.
Bonus: Our comprehensive Learning Document PDF includes hyperlinks to over 50 additional resources to dive deeper into micro:bit and E Lit.
Accessing the Free Course
The creation of this video course was sponsored by the Infosys Foundation USA, a non-profit organization that aims to increase access to inclusive computer science and maker education for all students and educators in the United States. CodeJoy has partnered with the Foundation many times over the past four years on initiatives like their national K12 teacher training program, Pathfinders Summer Institute, the C3 Grant Awards, the Infy Maker Awards, and the Connecticut Lieutenant Governor’s Computing Challenge. When Infosys Foundation USA tapped CodeJoy to produce a live micro:bit course for Pathfinders Summer Institute 2024, we jumped in with both feet! When they asked us to then produce an asynchronous video course version of the experience, we got to work.
In order to watch the videos, access the Learning Document resources, and receive a certificate of completion, educators should visit the Pathfinders Online Institute, a dynamic digital learning platform designed to give K12 educators access to computer science and maker education courses and create an account. Once your account has been verified via email, you can login and search for “CodeJoy,” or find the course in the “K-12 TEACHERS & DISTRICT LEADERSHIP” section.
Hopes and Goals
We’re so proud of our work on this course! We hope that you check out the course for yourself, and that you share it with an educator who could benefit from a deep and meaningful experience with Environmental Literacy. Use this link to share this blog post via email, social media, anywhere you’d like! Feel free to share screenshots, reactions, and encouragements on social media as well! You can use these hashtags and handles:
- CodeJoy: @CodeJoyEdu
- Infosys Foundation USA: @InfyFoundation
- Hashtags: #EnviroEd #microbit #IteachOutdoors #Education
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