Leadership Professional Learning Community Explores Coding and Interactive Technologies

October 30, 2025

On October 30, 2025, the Center for STEM Education’s Leadership Professional Learning Community (PLC) convened for an engaging session focused on block coding and interactive technology integration. Three students from the Students in Technology, Academia, Research, and Service (STARS) program led participants through a hands-on activity to create a digital “Pong” game using block coding. Over 30 area STEM professionals participated in this collaborative learning experience.

Dr. David Pugalee, Dr. Chris Glover, and Mrs. Alisa Wickliff also facilitated the session, demonstrating how Makey Makey kits and MicroBits can be connected to the Pong game to highlight real-world, hands-on applications of coding and engineering design. Participants explored how these tools can enhance classroom instruction and student engagement through creative problem-solving and interactivity.

The session was both informative and enjoyable, fostering collaboration and innovation among STEM educators and professionals. Participants expressed enthusiasm for the next PLC engagement, scheduled for December 3, 2025.

For more information about the STEM Education Leadership PLC, please visit https://cstem.charlotte.edu. To register or learn more, contact Dr. David Pugalee at david.pugalee@charlotte.edu or Mrs. Alisa Wickliff at abwickli@charlotte.edu.