Creating a smart watering system using a micro:bit is a fun and educational project that combines digital making and computer science concepts. Imagine you have a little garden with some plants that need water to grow. We can make a special machine that can give water to the plants automatically. We will connect the micro:bit to sensors, e.g. soil moisture sensors. These sensors can tell us things like how hot it is outside and how much moisture is in the soil. We can use this information to decide when to turn on the water for the plants. We can also connect a switch to the micro:bit which can control the water pump and turn it on and off as needed. Overall, creating a smart watering system using a micro:bit is a great way to learn about digital making and computer science concepts, as well as explore the possibilities of creating interactive and automated projects. It also helps to conserve water and optimize the watering process for plants.

Learning Outcomes

1. List micro:bit hardware and features
2. Use MakeCode Block Editor to code and download the codes onto the micro:bit
3. Apply programming concepts such as variables, state & events, constructs, selection/conditional statements
4. Expand the capabilities of the micro:bit using a breakout board
5. Write simple program and code the solution behaviour

Skills Developed

Computational Thinking

• Logical Thinking
• Algorithm Design
• Pattern Recognition
• Problem Decomposition
• Pattern Generalisation & Abstraction

Design Thinking

• Innovation
• Inventiveness
• Hands-on Ability

21st Century Competencies

• Social Awareness
• Relationship Management
• Critical & Inventive Thinking
• Global Awareness and Cross-cultural Skills
• Communication, Collaboration & Information Skills