Program Overview
Join CodeJoy for the Micro:bit in the Wild program!
The goal of the program is to use the BBC micro:bit to do Environmental Literacy (E Lit) activities through Computer Science. This program integrates CS and E Lit into any class, subject, or discipline. Each activity is aligned to standards across the curriculum. Participants will learn to code, build, and teach with these tools, and will have time to collaborate with fellow educators.
Activities in the program are inspired by historical figures, naturalists, explorers, and science communicators. Each activity prompts learners to create a code, using MakeCode (block-based programming language), to solve a problem, then use the micro:bit to explore and play.
Program Quick Facts
Grades: 3rd-12th
Hardware: Teachers receive 30 micro:bits, cords, battery packs, and battery sets.* All hardware is reusable and non-consumable.
Professional Development:
- Duration: 3 x three-hour sessions
- Times: Flexible scheduling, July-September
- Location: Virtual, live or recorded options available
Note: It's standard for teachers to receive one classroom set of hardware, although they may request more if they serve more students, or less if they are partnering with other teachers in their building.
About the Hardware: the BBC micro:bit
The BBC micro:bit is a pocket-sized computer designed to introduce students to the fundamentals of coding and physical computing. It features an LED display, buttons, sensors, and connectivity options, allowing students to create interactive projects that respond to their environment. This versatile tool encourages hands-on learning, enabling students to see the direct impact of their code on real-world applications, making it an excellent resource for engaging young learners in technology and programming. Click here to learn more about the BBC micro:bit.
Iowa STEM Scale Up teacher participants will receive a classroom set of 30 micro:bits, plus battery packs, batteries, and USB cords. It's everything a teacher needs to start physical computing in any classroom!
About the Training: Professional Development with CodeJoy
CodeJoy is a proven professional development delivery partner in Iowa. CodeJoy has deep relationships with Iowa teachers, as a past Iowa STEM Scale Up program delivery partner, through partnerships with Iowa AEAs and school districts, and as the highest rated PD partner during Iowa CS PD week in 2023.
Professional development is delivered in three 3-hour live, virtual sessions (A, B, C), offered multiple times between July and September, giving teachers flexible scheduling options. (Check out this video to see what live, virtual learning with CodeJoy feels like!) There is also an asynchronous option for those unable to attend live sessions. This hybrid model has achieved 100% completion from CodeJoy’s past Iowa STEM Scale Up participants. Teachers receive a portion of the hardware in the mail before the sessions, with the remainder sent to their schools after completion.
Sample Program Activities
Participants program the micro:bit to keep track of their steps as they walk.
Computing Concepts: conditional statements, events, variables, types of data, loops.
Participants use the micro:bit to collect and store data, then access that data as a table and a graph.
Computing Concepts: data collection, inputs and outputs, debugging, power supply
Participants code the micro:bit to indicate both cardinal directions and compass heading as a number.
Computing Concepts: inputs and outupts, radio frequency, commenting
How Can Teachers Apply?
The following teachers are eligible for this program:
- Must teach in the state of Iowa
- Public, private, AND charter school teachers
- Public library educators
- After school program providers
- District leaders
- Any subjects
- Serving students in any grades 3rd-12th
Application Tips and Info:
- Applications open on January 7th, 2025.
- Applications are due March 4th, 2025.
- Multiple teachers from the same building or organization may apply together.
- Co-applicants should fill out ONE application.
- Co-applicants may request multiple classroom sets of hardware, or just one, or none, if the school already has the micro:bits they need.
- Applications are more likely to be approved if a teacher includes specific information about their teaching context, such as why your school will benefit from E Lit, Computer Science, or cross-curricular learning.
- Applications are also more likely to be approved if a teacher has situational awareness, meaning they have chatted with others at their district/organization to find out if anyone else is applying.
- Teachers should apply through the IowaGrants.gov website.
- Use the Grant Writing Planning Tool below to better plan and execute your application.
Questions about the Program?
Email hello@codejoy.org
Questions about the Application?
Email matthew-j-stier@uiowa.edu