The Latest From Code Savvy - Intentions for 2023
As we move into 2023, we are revisiting our strategic plan and focusing our intentions on continuing to build our community, and measuring our impact on both students and educators across Minnesota.
Our wish for the new year is for even more underrepresented young people to have access and opportunity to explore computer science, and for our state legislators to fully support creating the foundation for teachers and students alike to gain the 21st century skills they need to build the future.
We hope you and your families have had a wonderful holiday season, and that we will see you all very soon!
Valerie Lockhart
Executive Director
This Week’s Spotlight and Project-Inspiration Theme: Physical Computing with MicroPython
Physical Computing is the interaction between interactive systems and the physical world by creating programs that sense activity, such as light, temperature, and motion. This activity triggers physical components such as motors, switches, and lights. These inputs translate into a software system using sensors and microcontrollers; one of the systems that work with these is, MicroPython.
MicroPython is a “lean and efficient implementation of the Python 3 programming language optimized to run on microcontrollers.” Using Python makes it easier to learn how programming and hardware interact. MicroPython allows users to learn quickly and see their projects do real-time work.
At Code Savvy, we have a couple of programs that help teach students about Physical Computing using MicroPython via the Micro:Bit. The Byte-Sized Challenge is a program that consists of 16-40 minute lessons, which can be delivered over 8-10 weeks directly in the classroom. We provide the curriculum, hardware (Micro:Bits), industry mentors, and snacks - teachers provide the classroom oversight, guidance, computers/Chromebooks, and the relationships with their students. The season kicks off in February in about 5 new schools for 2023!
We also have the Code Explorers program, which offers industry mentors for learning MicroPython. Check out this website for the curricula they use to teach!