What is MicroChat?

MicroChat is a coding helper for classrooms. You describe what you want a program to do, in plain words, and MicroChat writes the code for you. It then shows the code as colourful MakeCode blocks, and you can send it straight to a micro:bit.

You don't need to know how to code to use it. If you can describe an idea, MicroChat can turn it into a working program.

Who is it for?

• Teachers create an account, write programs, run classroom sessions, and build lessons.
• Students don't need accounts. A teacher gives them a join code, and they can start coding right away.

What can it do?

• Code – Write programs for the BBC micro:bit by chatting.
• Arcade – Make simple retro-style games for the micro:bit-based CodeCTRL handheld.
• Code Sessions and Arcade Sessions – Run a class where every student gets their own chat.
• Tutorial Builder – Turn a lesson idea into a step-by-step MakeCode tutorial you can share.

How does a typical chat go?

1. You type something like "Show a heart when I press button A."
2. MicroChat writes the program and shows it as blocks.
3. You plug in a micro:bit and click Download to run it.
4. MicroChat asks you what you think the program will do, then helps you understand and change it.

That last step is on purpose. MicroChat follows a teaching approach called PRIMM (Predict, Run, Investigate, Modify, Make). Instead of only handing you an answer, it helps you learn from it.

Where is it made?

MicroChat is made by Forward Education, the company behind the Climate Action Kit and other micro:bit learning kits. That's why MicroChat knows about those kits and can write code for their sensors and motors.

Next steps

• Creating your account and logging in
• Your first program with Code