Small coding device which aims to inspire the younger generation to learn to code
Bangalore, 20th September 2017: element14, The Development Distributor, is now shipping the BBC micro:bit to customers in India as they join The Micro:bit Education Foundation to officially launch the coding device in India at Didac, Bombay Exhibition Centre, 19-21 September 2017.
The BBC micro:bit was originally launched in the UK in March 2016 following an educational programme led by the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), in partnership with a group of technology partners including ARM, Microsoft and element14. Since launch in the UK there have been 13 million visits to the microbit.org website, nearly 10 million code simulator runs and 2 million compiles to devices. The use of the micro:bit in education is also delivering a positive change in attitudes towards STEM*.
- 39% of girls said that they would definitely choose ICT/computing compared to 23% before
- 86% said it made computer science more interesting
- 88% said it showed that coding isn’t as hard as they thought
Measuring only 4cm by 5cm, the BBC micro:bit is a hands-on, easy-to-use introduction to the world of technology and is packed with features that provide endless possibilities for creativity. The device is supported by a website, www.microbit.org that features a range of resources and tutorials to help users take advantage of the micro:bit’s vast potential.
The micro:bit includes:
- 25 red LEDs –light them up, flash messages, create games, and invent digital stories
- Two programmable buttons– associate them with an action and interact with your projects
- On-board motion detector– just like a smartphone; the micro:bit can react to shakes, tilts, and even drops
- A built-in compass –sense which direction you’re facing and your movement in degrees
- Bluetooth Smart Technology and Low Energy– connect to the internet and the world around you, whether that’s other micro:bits, phones, cameras, or tablets to ‘code on the go’ or take selfies
- Five Input and Output rings –connect the micro:bit directly to other devices using crocodile clips or 4mm banana plugs, and send commands back and forth
Ralf Buehler, SVP Sales and Marketing for Premier Farnell, said: “The BBC micro:bit project was a milestone event in the world of STEM education and computer programming in the UK – and we are delighted to make it available to buy through element14 in India . As the Development Distributor, we are committed to helping develop the future of technology, whether that is supporting customers building products that can change the world for the better, or helping a teacher inspire their class to get into coding. The BBC micro:bit is a fantastic way to introduce students to coding – allowing hands-on application of technology in a way that can inspire our younger generations.”
The BBC micro:bit is available in a range of pack sizes from single BBC micro:bit and ‘micro:bit go’ packs which include a USB cable, battery holder & 2x AAA batteries along with a Quick Start Guide and four inspirational ideas to get started; to ‘Club’ packs of 10 and bulk boxes of 300.
The BBC micro:bit is available from element14. Visitors to Didac can find out more at the Micro:bit & CBIS stand, Stand C6c.
The BBC micro:bit is available to buy from element14 in India.
