Teesside teacher’s robotics invention set to “transform” STEM learning

A tech-savvy Teesside tutor has launched a micro robotics kit that is set to transform STEM learning.

Dr Anwar Bashir, computing tutor at Middlesbrough College, has been developing the hardware for the past five years in a bid to “inspire the next generation” to learn new skills.

And now, his MicroPi Starter Kit, which is designed to take the complexity out of computer programming, will allow budding robotics engineers to learn about the ‘Internet of Things’ and create systems for “all sorts of clever functions”.

It will also remove difficulties faced by computing teachers who currently use multiple pieces of complex kit by giving them the ability to get learners working on practical projects within minutes.

Anwar explained: “When I was younger, I was influenced and inspired by computing developed by the BBC Micro and the Sinclair ZX Spectrum and went on into a career in IT that has served me incredibly well over the past 30 years.

“I wanted to see if I could do the same thing and design a piece of kit that would inspire the next generation into the industry. And there didn’t seem to be anything like this around – a comprehensive kit that combines simplicity with a supportive ecosystem.

“I hope and believe that this will take more people on the same journey that I went on 30 years ago and inspire them into an incredibly exciting and rewarding career.”

The power of the MicroPi comes from the fact that it is built on the strengths of the Raspberry Pi, a UK-built, credit card sized single board computer that has “taken the educational world by storm” by offering a cheap means for students to get to grips with computer science.

Anwar added: “Raspberry Pi is an incredibly versatile tool, however, I felt like it wasn’t being used as effectively as it could be. I reimagined it in a way that was much simpler to use and supported by its own online courses.”

Zoe Lewis, principal and chief executive of Middlesbrough College, added: “Every day our students are inspired by tutors like Anwar who are incredibly passionate about their subject.

“It’s no accident that Middlesbrough College has some of the brightest and best teachers from industry backgrounds. Anwar’s latest invention proves how invested he is in helping more young people share his passion. It also reflects our own long-term commitment to improving STEM skills.”

By Matthew Neville – Correspondent, Bdaily

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