Embedded Systems with MakeCode, CircuitPython and the Circuit Playground Express #CircuitPlaygroundExpress #MakeCode #CircuitPython @RohanDeanTTCD

Through The Classroom Door writes about Embedded Systems with MakeCode, CircuitPython and the Circuit Playground Express, a unit for learning on microcontrollers and programming for grade schoolers. Both the BBC micro:bit (for younger children) and the Adafruit Circuit Playground Express (for older children) are covered. Programming for both boards may be accomplished in the block language Microsoft MakeCode while Circuit Playground Express may also be coded in CircuitPython.

The BBC Micro:bit

For younger students, we use BBC Micro:bit to introduce them to programming and connecting the physical inputs and outputs needed with embedded systems. We do this mainly based on the learning resources we have access to, which generally target younger students. Otherwise, the BBC Micro:bit is very comparable to the Circuit Playground Express.

The Circuit Playground Express (CPX)

The reason we use the CPX for years 9-10 is because Adafruit provides such good support via MakeCode , CircuitPython and their own learning system. Their projects are also a little more advanced and challenging.

From Blocks to Text

I like to have students design and prototype their algorithms in a block-based programming environment. I find this to be easier and more efficient when cycling through several iterations of solution design and testing. It’s also a more visual and coherent experience. With CPX, I start with MakeCode and have students implement their final solutions in CircuitPython. Interestingly, Adafruit went with MakeCode and not Edublocks. Edublocks uses Python, while MakeCode uses Javascript?

See the educational unit here.