Microsoft Teaches ISD Students to Code Their Own AI Bugs

Fifth grade students at Sunset Elementary and Cougar Ridge Elementary had an exciting learning experience last week. Members of the Microsoft Elevate team visited both schools to teach students about computer coding and artificial intelligence (AI) through a fun activity called “Bug Arena.”

In this lesson, students used Microsoft MakeCode Arcade, an online coding tool made for kids. Their challenge was to code their own bug and teach it to “think” using simple AI rules. Once their bugs were ready, students sent them into the ‘Bug Arena’ to battle other student-made bugs in a friendly tower challenge.

The activity is designed for students ages 9 to 15 and takes about 45 minutes to complete. No experience is needed, and students do not use a chatbot during the lesson. Students choose from three learning paths and earn a certificate and badge when they finish.

This learning experience was made possible with help from School Board member A.J. Taylor, who works at Microsoft. Taylor coordinated with the Microsoft Elevate Team and our district Technology team to bring this hands-on STEM lesson to ISD classrooms.

Students learned about problem-solving, creativity, and how computers make decisions. They also practiced teamwork and perseverance as they tested and improved their bugs.

This was a great example of how community partnerships can bring powerful learning to our schools. We are grateful for the collaboration and excited to explore more opportunities like this for students.