Reference articles on history, science, culture and more
Surprise meSurprise meSubscribe
Encyclopedia

BBC Computer Literacy Project 2012

Wikipedia contributorsAdapted for Fathomly · View authors
1 min read
Source updated October 29, 2025

The planned BBC Computer Literacy Project 2012, inspired by the original scheme which introduced the BBC Micro in the 1980s, was being developed by BBC Learning to provide a starting place for young people and others to develop marketable skills in computing technology and program coding.

Unlike the original project, the 2012 version didn't prescribe a particular bespoke computer device like the BBC Micro. Rather, the interactive computer-based tools where intended to be used on a variety of platforms, including Microsoft Windows, Mac OS X and Linux. Programming languages to be covered included; HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Java and Node.js. along with XML, Databases, Python, Ruby, PHP and others.

Dubbed BBC Hello World, the project had four major elements:

  • Content - a series of TV and Radio programmes, plus supporting content to develop understanding of computer science, technology, and coding.
  • Coding - BBC Micro 2.0, an IDE (integrated development environment) providing "the first ‘spark’" and support to learn a range of modern computer languages, applications and skills.
  • Projects - designed to get young people, adults and teachers creating real products and services.
  • Partnerships - The BBC will work with others who share the vision to improve understanding of computer technology and coding for all.

It appears the project was leaked ahead of time as the BBC never officially announced the Project and the website was soon taken down in 2012. No further announcements (or leaks) have been made.

Watch videos about BBC Computer Literacy Project 2012Explainers and documentaries on YouTube (opens in a new tab)

Sources and credits

This article is adapted from the Wikipedia article “BBC Computer Literacy Project 2012”, written by its contributors and licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. Fathomly has changed the layout, removed citation markers, navigation and maintenance notices, and adjusted punctuation. This adapted version is shared under the same license. For references, see the original article.

Fathomly is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Wikimedia Foundation. Spotted a problem? Tell us.

Continue exploring

Related topics

Digital literacy

Digital literacy is an individual's ability to find, evaluate, and communicate information using digital devices or digital media platforms, as well as the ability to navigate, evaluate, create, and communicate information in digital environments. Digital literacy combines technical and cognitive abilities; it includes using information and communication technologies to create, evaluate, and share information, and critically examining their social and political impacts.

Computer literacy

"Computer literacy" is defined as the knowledge and ability to use computers and related technology efficiently, with skill levels ranging from elementary use to computer programming and advanced problem solving. Computer literacy can also refer to the comfort level someone has with using computer programs and applications.

International Certification of Digital Literacy

International Certification of Digital Literacy, formerly known as European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL), is a digital literacy certification program provided by ICDL Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation. The ICDL / ECDL certification is a globally recognised information and communication technology (ICT) and digital literacy qualification.