Doctor Who: coding with the thirteenth Doctor

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BBC Learning and Tynker have collaborated to create the HiFive Inventor a Next-Generation Education Technology Mini-Computer, helping kids to learn to code with the voice and image of the thirteenth Doctor, Jodie Whittaker.

The HiFive Inventor is a hand-shaped mini-computer designed to teach kids how to control robots or interface with IoT systems to investigate the world around them. The device has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth technologies which reinforces the wireless data handoff between devices (or “HiFive”) that will power 21st-century technology applications of computing for smart cities, intelligent factories, and enhanced wearable technology.

Narrated by Jodie Whittaker, the thirteenth Doctor takes students on intergalactic journeys and challenges like learning to code and pilot an alien spaceship, control a robot and program an exotic musical instrument. The device is designed to teach kids essential skills as they are having fun. Players will be able to read data from the on-board suite of sensors and program on-device decisions to display results using the fun and colourful LED-matrix display. Younger students will begin their learning journey with the Tynker visual block coding and advanced students with Micropython.

The HiFive Inventor is powered by a robust SiFive processor and comes with an illuminated USB cable, battery pack, and edge connectors to allow for expandability to a range of additional sensors and devices.

The BBC HiFive Inventor will be available to order through BBC Shop, Amazon, Pimoroni, and other leading retailers on November 23.