My LPSF Grant helped me to fund students projects that would serve as an entry point to programming and creating computer hardware and electronics. The microbit is programmable circuit board that comes equipped with a wide variety of sensors and inputs. Using the microbits I had students create projects in a variety of domains related to cybersecurity, robotics, and computer science. All areas that students tend to find intimidating and hard to start.

The first major project implemented was an radio encryption program. Students first started by utilizing the radio features equipped on the microbit to set up communication channels that they can send messages on similar to professional and amateur radio protocols such as Ham radio. The students were highly engaged because they could see immediate results and implement changes quickly. I then introduced the second part of the lesson by showcasing a cyber attack using another microbit that was programmed to intercept messages and replay them. Some students noticed this replay attack and it was used as an opportunity to discuss incident response. We then came up with ways of encrypting our messages so that future communication could be kept private.

The programming aspect of the microbits and their quick set up nature enabled my students to quickly iterate and make changes to the project. The microbits feature both block programming languages and text based programming languages so students of all skill levels were able to participate. This helps me differentiate projects between students while still keeping the overhead on project software and hardware setup low. Because of the amount of microbits on hand. Students were able to implement projects one to one and we didn't have to share microbits between classes. So students could keep working on a single microbit without worrying about progress being reset after they have left class. Students after having the microbit have an easier time working with computer hardware and feel comfortable modifying embedded system projects, and working with tools such as cabling and soldering irons.

Future iterations of the microbit projects will utilize features like data logging and guidance on how to go past quick prototypes with microbit to more sophisticated circuit boards. I also intend to use the microbits in the future at outreach events. For example during the 2025-2026 school year I took upperclassmen students to the Tom Stafford Air & Space Museum to give cybersecurity demos. I have been invited back for the 2026-2027 school year and intend on taking back students who will use the microbits in different activities. I plan on actively involving students on the creation of these activities and the implementation of the outreach event.