EcoCode with the micro:bit
Workshops that empower students to explore sustainable computing. Using the micro:bit, participants design creative, climate-focused tech solutions through the lens of the latest research into sustainability.
The Neon quality mark shows this activity has been reviewed and meets Neon's quality standards.
Overview
EcoCode is a suite of face-to-face workshops that help pupils explore sustainability through physical computing. Using the micro:bit and real science contexts, students design, code and test technology-based solutions inspired by current sustainability research.
Delivered in schools by trained Digit<all> ambassadors who are experienced Computing educators, EcoCode workshops support computing and science learning while showing how digital skills can be used to tackle real-world environmental challenges.
Pupils will:
Use the micro:bit in hands-on, practical activities
Learn core computing concepts, including algorithms, sequencing, selection, inputs and outputs
Apply computing in real environmental and scientific contexts
Develop problem-solving and computational thinking skills
Workshop themes
Schools can choose from a wide range of workshops inspired by sustainability and science research, including: Animal adaptations and survival, Climate, temperature and environmental monitoring, Light, materials and colour, Plants, ecosystems and biodiversity, Sensors, data and digital systems
Topics include: Cosmic Rays, Frog and Cryo-coolers, Penguin Feet, Spider Silk, Plant Partner, Polar Bear Hair, Projectile Slime, and more.
Workshops are tailored to different ages within KS2–KS3. Digit<all> will recommend suitable options based on your pupils’ needs.
Practical details
- Space requirements: classroom or hall
- All equipment is provided, including micro:bits and Chromebooks if needed.
- Curriculum links: Computing and Science
Details
- School subject
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- Technology/computing
- Engineering
- Physics
- Curriculum links
-
- Computing
- Physics: Electricity and electromagnetism
- Physics: Space physics
- Sciences - Forces, electricity and waves: Electricity
- Computing science
- Sciences - Planet earth: Space
- Physics: Electricity
- Physics
- Technology & design - Communication: Use of ICT tools (including 3D modelling)
- Sciences - Forces and energy: Using electricity
- Technology & design - Control: Incorporate control systems in products
- Sciences - Earth and universe: The solar system and universe
- Group size
- Whole class
- Participation level
- Hands-on
- Duration
- 1 to 2 hours
90mins (or 60mins if preferred).
Half and full day delivery available (until midday or 3:30pm, featuring as many workshops as possible).
- Cost
- Cost may apply
The workshops are currently free in 40 towns and cities across the UK but funding fluctuates at different times of year so please enquire directly with Digit<all>.
If your area isn't covered, costing is £350 for a half-day of workshops and £600 for a full day. - Location
-
In-school
- UK-wide
Learning outcomes
- Improve engagement, interest or enjoyment in STEM subjects
- Attainment and progress
- Learning what the engineering workplace is like
- Develop engineering employability skills
- Improve awareness and aspirations for STEM-related study and careers
- Challenge stereotypes by showing the diversity of disciplines, people and skills involved in engineering
Frameworks
Gatsby benchmarks
The Gatsby benchmarks are a framework for good careers guidance for schools across all of England and in some areas across the rest of the UK. This experience helps your school to reach the following benchmarks:
- 3 - Addressing the needs of each pupil
- 4 - Linking curriculum learning to careers
EqualEx
- Introduce and Inspire
Essential skills
The essential skills every young person needs to succeed in education and their future career. Find out more at the Skills Builder Partnership. This experience builds the following skills:
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Enrichment framework
- 5 - An accessible and engagement enrichment offer
