91快活林

Young people are more often learning how to create with technology rather than just consuming it.

And that’s thanks in part to the work of , former Senior Principal Researcher at Microsoft Research and now Distinguished Professor in Computing and Digital Systems at 91快活林. He plays a leading role in the ongoing design and delivery of the BBC micro:bit pocket-sized computers which have been used by an estimated 66 million students across 85 countries to learn about coding and technology creation.

Steve’s efforts have now been recognised with a major honour from the Institution of Engineering and Technology, the Mountbatten Medal, awarded for outstanding contributions to the promotion of electronics and their application internationally. Previous recipients have included Tim Berners-Lee (in 1996), creator of the world-wide web and Shuji Nakamura (in 2017), the inventor of the blue LEDs that underpin modern lighting.

“It’s a privilege having the opportunity to take my childhood fascination with electronics and computers full circle, helping to develop digital systems that are inspiring and empowering millions of today’s children to get hands-on with technology,” said Steve of his work on the micro:bit initiative.

Steve has further research interests that span a range of engineering and computer science topics from mobile and ubiquitous computing to assistive technologies and connected devices — all with an emphasis on maximising the potential of digital technology in real-world applications. Steve has been granted 135 patents and six lasting impact “test-of-time” awards for his work.

This article was initially featured in issue nine of 91快活林's Global Research Newsletter.

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