Micro:bit Innovation and Research Lab

A group of primary school children with Micro:bit single board computers

We work with a global community of innovators to explore new physical computing technologies that inspire and empower the next generation of digital creators.

Welcome

The Micro:bit Innovation and Research Lab (MIRL) at Lancaster University is dedicated to advancing physical computing research and innovation to empower young people worldwide. Working with a global community of innovators and researchers, we are building and evaluating physical computing technologies that inspire and empower future generations to be digital creators.

A decade ago, Lancaster University played a pivotal role in creating the BBC micro:bit, an award-winning pocket-sized physical computer designed to provide these much-needed skills. Since then, Lancaster has partnered with the Micro:bit Educational Foundation, a not-for-profit established to bring the benefits of the micro:bit to a global audience and in particular to girls and other children from under-represented backgrounds.

It is estimated that over 70 million young people in 85 countries have already benefitted from physical computing activities using a micro:bit. But, as the digital landscape evolves, so too do educational needs. The micro:bit platform must adapt to fulfill its potential in this rapidly-changing context, while also supporting its extensive existing user base and global ecosystem.

Recent News

Professor Steve Hodges

Prestigious Fellow recognition for Lancaster computing Professor

The work of a Lancaster University professor has been recognised by a prestigious Fellow status from an international learned society.
Children holding up micro:bits

Lancaster University receives nation’s highest education honour

Lancaster University has been awarded a Queen Elizabeth Prize for Education for its pioneering work that is helping to drive a global transformation in digital literacy.
Distinguished Professor Steve Hodges

Lancaster Professor’s work inspiring children to engage with technology recognised with prestigious medal

The work of a Lancaster University computer scientist has been recognised by a prestigious medal from the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET).
The pro2 2025 cohort on top of the InfoLab roof

Lancaster University’s School of Computing and Communications plays host to prototyping summer school for the second year

Lancaster University’s School of Computing and Communications plays host to pro2 Summer School – dedicated to supporting innovators in building prototypes of digital devices – for the summer school’s second year of running.
Faculty of Science and Technology banned with Executive Dean Professor Pete Atkinson and seven PhD winners of awards at the Celebration of Science.

Celebration of Science is a Big Success in its 20th Year

The Faculty of Science and Technology’s Celebration of Science 2025: Discovery for a Changing World has taken place. This is the 20th year that an event has been run, showcasing research across the Faculty.
young boy looking at an iPad from which magical colours are appearing

CARE-Kids: Shaping young minds to challenge gender stereotypes and foster critical thinking

The CARE-Kids project, led by Dr Elisa Rubegni at Lancaster University, develops AI-based educational tools to teach children critical thinking and bias recognition. By encouraging inclusivity, creativity, and AI literacy, it helps students challenge stereotypes

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