Overview
The BBC micro:bit is a pocket-sized computer with built-in sensors, LED display, buttons, and speaker. As a physical computing device, the micro:bit introduces students to how software and hardware work together, and is designed to enable children to get engaged and creative with technology and coding.
The small size of the micro:bit makes it portable and approachable, but can also present barriers for some users. Many micro:bit projects are focused on visual or auditory outputs, but the flexibility of it allows projects to be adapted for all students.
While the accessibility of digital tools is well-researched and follows standard patterns, to consider the accessibility of a physical computing device requires understanding the user journeys in a real life classroom environment and identifying barriers at different stages.
In 2023 we commissioned research into the accessibility of micro:bit hardware for students with disabilities. Through this research and ongoing conversations with teachers, we’ve identified that most hardware barriers fall into three main areas:
Sensory outputs - Students with vision impairment or who are deaf or hard of hearing may miss out on certain outputs from the LED display or speaker.
Physical inputs - Students with mobility difficulties may find it difficult to press the small buttons or manipulate connections such as USB cables, battery connectors or external components.
Confidence and know-how - Teachers may lack the confidence to make the best of the micro:bit’s inherent adaptability for students with different needs.
What makes the micro:bit accessible
The micro:bit's simplicity and extensibility make it naturally adaptable for many users:
- The audio and visual outputs allow different senses to be explored
- The edge connector pins allow interfacing with external switches, alternative displays, and other assistive hardware
- The tactile nature of the micro:bit V2 allows key features to be identified by touch, especially when accompanied by our Tactile micro:bit poster
- The web-based simulator allows students to experiment using their existing assistive technology setup before working with physical hardware
- The Python editor has excellent accessibility, with full keyboard and screen reader support
- Block-based and text-based coding options let students learn in the way that works best for them
Guides for teachers
We've developed detailed guides to help teachers include students with specific access needs in their micro:bit lessons. These teacher guides outline common barriers, and give ideas for hardware adaptations as well as making coding more accessible.
- Working with students with fine motor and mobility challenges
- Working with students with visual impairments
- Working with students who are deaf and hard of hearing
Feedback
We continue to learn from teachers and students using the micro:bit in diverse settings. If you have feedback about hardware accessibility, or want to share adaptations you have been using, please contact us at accessibility@microbit.org.