Microsoft MakeCode
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Developer(s) | Microsoft |
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Initial release | 2017 |
Repository | github |
Written in | TypeScript (React) |
Operating system | Web application, Windows 10, macOS |
Platform | Web browser, microcontrollers (e.g., BBC micro:bit, Adafruit Circuit Playground) |
Type | Educational programming platform |
License | MIT License |
Website | makecode |
Microsoft MakeCode is a free, open-source platform developed by Microsoft for creating engaging computer science learning experiences[1] that support both block-based and text-based programming.[2] It is primarily aimed at students and educators in K–12 environments.[3]
Overview
[edit]MakeCode provides an interactive web-based environment where users can develop code for microcontrollers, including the BBC micro:bit, Adafruit boards, and others. It offers both drag-and-drop block programming (based on Google Blockly) and JavaScript or Python coding views, allowing users to transition from visual to textual coding.[4]
The platform includes features such as an integrated simulator, hardware device support, tutorials, and project sharing capabilities.[5] It is widely used in educational settings to teach the fundamentals of coding and computational thinking.[6]
Supported devices
[edit]- BBC micro:bit[4]
- Adafruit Circuit Playground Express
- Arcade (a virtual handheld game console environment)
- LEGO Mindstorms EV3 (limited)
- Chibi Chip, Calliope mini, and others
Features
[edit]- Dual editor: block-based and JavaScript/Python[3]
- Hardware simulation
- Extensions and custom hardware support
- Offline editor support via downloadable apps
- GitHub integration[7]
Licensing
[edit]MakeCode is released under the open-source MIT License, and its source code is available on GitHub.[7]
History
[edit]Microsoft MakeCode was first released in 2017 as part of Microsoft’s initiative to support computer science education through engaging, accessible tools.[3]
See also
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ Warren, Tom (2017-05-10). "Microsoft MakeCode helps kids learn how to program hardware". ZDNet. Retrieved 2025-05-23.
- ^ "Block-Based Programming Languages". Code.org. Retrieved 2025-05-23.
- ^ a b c "About Microsoft MakeCode". makecode.com. Retrieved 2025-05-01.
- ^ a b Williams, Alun (7 July 2015). "Hands on with the BBC Micro-Bit user interface". ElectronicsWeekly.com. Archived from the original on 1 October 2015. Retrieved 8 July 2015.
- ^ "BBC micro:bit: A pocket-sized codeable computer". micro:bit Educational Foundation. Retrieved 2025-05-23.
- ^ "Microsoft MakeCode Brings Easy Coding to Microcontrollers". Tom's Hardware. Retrieved 2025-05-01.
- ^ a b "Microsoft MakeCode GitHub repository". GitHub. Retrieved 2025-05-01.