What's included
6 live meetings
5 hrs 30 mins in-class hoursClass Experience
Welcome to the world of MicroControllers! This class will take a beginner through the stages of "what is this thing" to confident programming and usage in just a few weeks. No prior knowledge necessary! The microbit Microcontroller is the least expensive yet fully functional and feature packed controller on the market. This microcontroller is the perfect one to start with as it is easy to use, inexpensive, requires no software, and is actually amazingly capable! Nothing else is necessary except a couple of batteries to make truly interesting and elaborate projects as a rank beginner. All programming is done "online" so there is no software to install. Class progression: Week 1: Intro to Microcontrollers and programming In the first week we go over the basics of capabilities and programming environment, learning how to write and send a very simple program to the MicroBit. Week 2: Display words and graphics! This week we will explore using the MicroBit display for words as well as graphics, and making them move. This will also facilitate understanding of basic procedural programming Week 3: Buttons! This week we will explore the use of push buttons and introduce the concept of interrupt driven inputs. Week 4: Where's the light? This week we explore the light related sensor and introduce the concept of polled inputs Week 5: Motion! This week we explore the motion related sensor and built some simple programs for motion detection and logic. Week 6: Where are we headed? The final week we explore the compass and some programs using the microbit as a directional finding device. At the end of this course, the student should be able to utilize the various simple inputs and understand well the concepts of basic programming and microcontrollers value to the world.
Learning Goals
At the end of this course, the student should have a good understanding of microcontrollers in the real world, plus be skilled in basic programming and input sensor usage.
Other Details
Supply List
The microcontroller called MicroBit must be purchased and available for the first class. In order to take this class, a purchase from the following link is required: http://www.perfectpackageonline.com/product/single-microbit-go-kit/6?cp=true&sa=true&sbp=false&q=false
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Teacher expertise and credentials
I have been in the tech industry as an engineer and entrepreneur all my life, and building robots since the early 70s. As a young teenager I was building microcontrollers from scratch for business use. I am experienced in both hardware and software, giving unique ability to convey the concepts of robotics (marriage of hardware + software) in easy to understand ways. The goal is understanding the concepts to build a foundation upon with to go further.
Reviews
Live Group Class
$96
for 6 classes1x per week, 6 weeks
55 min
Completed by 38 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 10-15
3-18 learners per class