About this Masterclass
Computer scientists and data analysts play a vital role in modern sports, using technology to unlock insights that improve player performance and game strategy.
In this session, students will explore how tools like the micro:bit can collect and analyse data, and be used to coach a students’ batting technique. By measuring the movement of a cricket bat and using real-time feedback, they’ll discover how computer science can revolutionise sports while building critical data analysis skills.
Length: 2 hours (see the session leader notes for ideas on how to shorten the Masterclass).
Note: Worksheets and supporting documents are provided in .docx format as well as pdf format, to enable adaptations. These should be opened in desktop versions of word processing software to preserve formatting and layout.
Resources needed
- 1 copy of Worksheet 1 – Batting Challenge Data Collection per group of students
- Laptops, computers, or tablets with internet access (1 per group)
- Micro:bit and battery pack (1 per group)
- USB-A to micro-USB lead (1 per group, for connecting micro:bit to a laptop)
- Cricket bat (1 per group) - you may wish to adapt this activity by using tennis rackets, golf clubs, or hockey sticks
- Pencils or pens
- Makecode programme for the cricket batting challenge - https://makecode.microbit.org/06856-27461-79324-66417
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Micro:bit Wearable (1 per group, to attach micro:bit to wrist)
Optional:
- 1 copy of Worksheet 0 – My favourite sports per student
- 1 copy of Worksheet 2 – Batter Recruitment per student
- Small, soft ball
- 1 clipboard per group of students (for batting challenge activity)
Additional activity resources
Supporting documents
All supporting notes, worksheets and solutions can be downloaded from this page along with the Powerpoint presentation.
The Session Leader Notes offer full notes on the activities and a detailed list of resources, including quantities needed.
The Session Helper Sheet can be distributed amongst helpers so they can better support the students.
Ask the Ri
You can collect any student questions and email them to the Ri Masterclass team at masterclasses@ri.ac.uk - we will endeavour to answer them before the next Masterclass in your series.
Masterclass series support
For more information on running a Masterclass series and the support, templates and other resources available to you, please get in touch via masterclasses@ri.ac.uk.