Title: “Coding Adventures with Micro:bit: Unleashing Creativity through Python”

Project Overview: The “Coding Adventures with Micro:bit” project aims to introduce middle school students to the world of coding using Python and the Micro:bit microcontroller. Through a design thinking approach, students will engage in a series of hands-on activities and challenges that foster creativity, problem-solving, and computational thinking skills. The project will empower students to design and code their own interactive projects using the Micro:bit’s sensors, LEDs, and buttons.

Duration: 6-8 weeks (can be adjusted based on available time)

Project Phases:

1. Introduction to Micro:bit and Python (1 week):
   • Provide an overview of the Micro:bit microcontroller and its capabilities.
   • Introduce the basics of Python programming language.
   • Engage students in simple coding exercises to familiarize them with Python syntax.
2. Ideation and Brainstorming (1 week):
   • Facilitate a brainstorming session where students generate ideas for interactive projects they can create using the Micro:bit.
   • Encourage students to think creatively and consider real-world problems that their projects could solve.
3. Prototyping and Testing (2-3 weeks):
   • Guide students in designing a prototype of their chosen project using the Micro:bit and Python.
   • Provide resources and tutorials for students to learn how to use Micro:bit’s sensors, LEDs, and buttons effectively.
   • Encourage students to test their prototypes, iterate, and make improvements based on feedback.
4. Showcase and Reflection (1 week):
   • Organize a showcase event where students present their completed projects to their peers, teachers, and parents.
   • Encourage students to reflect on their coding journey, challenges faced, and lessons learned.
   • Facilitate a discussion on the impact of their projects and how coding can be used to solve real-world problems.
5. Extension Activities (ongoing):
   • Offer optional extension activities for students who want to further explore coding with Micro:bit and Python.
   • Provide resources for students to continue learning independently or collaborate on advanced projects.

Project Deliverables:

• Weekly progress reports: Students document their progress, challenges, and learnings throughout the project.
• Prototype: Each student/team creates a functional prototype of their interactive project using the Micro:bit and Python.
• Showcase presentation: Students present their completed projects, explaining the problem they aimed to solve and how their solution works.
• Reflection essay: Students write a reflective essay on their coding journey, highlighting their growth, challenges, and future aspirations.

Project Resources:

• Micro:bit microcontrollers (one per student/team)
• Computers with Python IDE and Micro:bit simulator
• Online tutorials, coding challenges, and resources for Python and Micro:bit programming
• Design thinking worksheets and brainstorming tools
• Showcase event venue and materials (if applicable)

Note: The project timeline and specific activities can be adjusted based on the available resources, time constraints, and the students’ prior coding experience.