Bright Ideas: Exploring Light Reflection and Sun Safety With Micro:Bits
Two students working together to create a program that simulates light intensity.Copyright Jessica White
Students engage in a hands-on exploration of vision and light reflection by creating a program that simulates light intensity and how our eyes perceive images using the LED display on the micro: bits and its radio feature. After creating a model of an eye, students simulate the light intensity and reflection processes before they work in groups to identify and solve real-world problems related to sunlight and vision. Students utilize the engineering design process to research, imagine, plan, create, test, and improve their solutions, such as reminders for when to wear sunglasses or sunscreen, displays of current sunlight intensity, or determining which materials block light/UV rays.
Optical engineers design, develop, and test optical systems and devices that manipulate light, such as lenses, lasers, fiber optics, and imaging systems. They apply principles of physics, materials science, and engineering to create innovative solutions for a variety of applications, including telecommunications, medical imaging, consumer electronics, and aerospace. Their work often involves computer simulations, prototyping, and rigorous testing to ensure the performance and reliability of optical components and systems. Additionally, optical engineers collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to integrate optical technologies into larger systems and solve complex problems related to light behavior and its interaction with materials.
After this activity, students should be able to:
- Develop a model to describe how light reflecting from objects and entering the eye allows objects to be seen.
- Use a micro:bit to simulate the process of light reflection and vision.
- Learn basic coding and how to use a micro:bit for modeling and problem solving.