From Wow to Why: Using Immersive Hooks to Launch AI for Good Units

What happens when students watch someone code a robot live and then control it themselves from their seats? They ask why. They ask how. They want to build something too. In this hands-on workshop, you will experience exactly that: a live, interactive coding demonstration where real robots respond to real-time input, with no hardware, software or accounts required. Then we will unpack how that single moment of wonder becomes the launch pad for a full Design Thinking unit on AI for Good using micro:bit CreateAI, a free, browser-based tool. You will move through the experience as a learner first, then step back as an educator to examine the hook-inquiry-design arc underneath. Learn how to identify and deploy powerful instructional hooks, structure a beginner-friendly AI for Good unit, and connect a wow moment to sustained inquiry and community-centered design. Leave with a unit arc overview, suggested lesson sequence and resources for grades 3-8, plus language coaches can use to pitch the model. No prior micro:bit or coding experience required. All workshops are BYOD and require All Access or Session + Registration to attend.