InspireRV: Namecard Sized RISC V Computer for Foundational Digital Literacy and Computational Thinking

Abstract

Most students today use heavily on personal computers,
tablets, and smartphones, yet few understand the
foundational principles governing digital computation—how
binary values represent instructions, how machine code
corresponds to processor operations, or how high level
languages translate into sequences of zeros and ones. This
disconnect limits digital literacy and limits innovation
and breakthrough.
This paper presents InspireRV, an innovative namecard sized
(55×85 mm) RISC V–based edutainment computer designed
specifically to teach foundational concepts of computation
through direct manipulation of machine code, for students
starting from around 12 years old. Unlike conventional
coding tools, InspireRV allows students to physically enter
binary instruction bits using an integrated 64 LED/64
button clickable display, visualize execution in real time,
and explore RISC V operations through games, animations,
robotics, and small scale deep learning experimentation.
The device functions without a PC or tablet or internet,
lowering access barriers for schools and workshops. This
work describes the system’s design, educational rationale,
implementation of RISC V instruction interpretation,
extension modules (OLED disassembler instruction display,
robotic base, deep learning digit recognizer), and the
pedagogical model supporting its deployment in secondary
and tertiary education. InspireRV aims to ignite conceptual
curiosity, strengthen digital literacy, and inspire future
innovators to explore processor architecture and
computational engineering.