Python editor for Micro:bit single board educational computer

Author: EIS Release Date: Oct 10, 2022

Micro:bit Educational Foundation has annonced a Python editor for the BBC micro:bit educational single-board computer, “purpose-built to address the hurdles learners usually face in working with the type of languages used by most developers by creating a more user-friendly and intuitive learning experience”, according to the Foundation.

 

MicroBit Python editor

The editor has drag-and-drop code snippets, code structure highlighting and auto-complete, and “has also been designed to enhance appeal to more female learners and those from under-represented backgrounds”, claimed Micro:bit: “it has a more user-friendly interface, removes barriers posed by blank screens with prompts and new features, and, by pairing with a physical computer, learners feel their code come to life, which improves engagement across a broader range of students.”

 

A simulator is included to model student code for test, debug and iteration before it is transferred to the hardware, and a reference section provides short explanations and code snippets that students can drag and drop into their projects.