CSTANJ CSPDWeek 2026

How do we move students from being passive consumers of technology to active creators? Join us for a fun, hands-on dive into the BBC micro:bit—the pocket-sized computer.

In this hands-on session, we will review the hardware and software that make physical computing with micro:bit possible. You’ll be provided with simple ideas on how to integrate the micro:bit across your entire curriculum, from Science, Math, Communications, and Social-Emotional Learning (SEL). During this session you will also build, download, and play a logic-based game using Microsoft Makecode. The game will help us explore pattern recognition and machine learning.

Overview of what a micro bit is

Examples of a lesson or activity that can be enhanced by adding in micro bits in the subject area of science, robotics, math, social emotional learning, communications.

Introduction to basic micro:bit functions using the Meet Your micro:bit activity, with printed hand outs for this

Educators will be provided with presentation slides that have access to sample lessons in various subject areas.

Practice: Attendees will learn to program their micro bit and then play Rock, paper, scissors game

Extension for more advanced users & real-world connection is linking this to the ideas presented by Elliot Lichtman in his book The Computer Always Wins.
Chapter 10 Rock, Paper… Paper, Learn how computers detect patterns in this game of random choice, Pattern recognition is something a computer is king of. Can you develop an advantage in this seemingly unbiased game by adding functions to your “code” such as boring, sore loser, or reluctance?