Young learners code smart pedestrian systems at UTAR MakeCode and IoT workshop

Programming moved beyond the screen for 59 young learners as they built and tested smart pedestrian crossing systems during the MakeCode and Internet of Things (IoT) Workshop and Competition, held at UTAR Sungai Long Campus on 6 June 2026.

Organised by the Centre for Foundation Studies (CFS) under the UTAR–AMD CSR STEM Education Grant, the programme introduced primary school pupils aged seven to 12 to programming, electronics and smart systems through a practical team project. It was held at the AMD Cluster Classrooms as part of the Future Frontiers: IoT, Space Science and Interactive Learning programme.

Most of the participants had little or no previous exposure to MakeCode or IoT. Using the Micro:bit, EDU:BIT and MakeCode, they learned how instructions written in a block-based programming environment could be used to operate physical components such as LED lights, push buttons and servo motors.

The participants were divided into 12 teams and guided by UTAR student helpers from CFS, the Faculty of Accountancy and Management, and the Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science. This gave the young learners close support as they progressed from assembling hardware to programming and debugging their systems.

Their main challenge was to develop a working smart pedestrian crossing system. Each team assembled its EDU:BIT components, wrote simple programs to control the hardware and incorporated the system into a road model. Through the activity, participants explored basic programming concepts such as sequencing, conditional statements, events, and input and output operations.

The teams also assembled DIY STEM cars to complement their road models. The activity introduced simple engineering and mechanical assembly concepts while giving participants another opportunity to work together and solve practical problems. They were later allowed to take the cars home.

At the end of the workshop, each team presented and demonstrated its smart crossing system to a judging panel. The projects were assessed based on functionality, understanding of programming and IoT concepts, creativity, design, teamwork and collaboration.

Team Four emerged as the champion and received RM400. Led by UTAR student helper Lim Hui Teng, the team comprised Ho Yu Ning, Ho Yu Sheen, Lexie Kamelya Ahmad Zubir, Laxshaana Mathialagan and Thiyaash Kumaaravel Janash.

The first runner-up prize of RM250 went to Team Eight, led by Tan Hoi Nie. Its members were Tay Kay Yee, Muhammad Fahim Adrian bin Haszuan, Muhammad Fareez Nabil bin Muhammad Ikram, Muhammad Firash Aryan bin Haszuan and Muhammad Iman Arshad bin Mohd Nor.

Team Six, guided by Ng Yong Bin, received RM150 as the second runner-up. The team consisted of Aaron Jeremy, Amelia Sheranee, Caleb Isaac Akash, Danny Daniel Syaheer bin Harris and Micah Phung Jun Wern.

All winners received certificates of achievement, while every participant received an electronic certificate of participation.

Beyond the competition, the programme helped participants understand how software and electronic components work together in an automated system. They also practised logical thinking, problem-solving, creativity and teamwork while translating their ideas into functioning models.

Participant feedback showed that the coding, EDU:BIT assembly, road construction and STEM car activities were among the most enjoyable parts of the programme. Responses collected after the workshop also indicated an increase in the participants’ understanding of programming and IoT concepts. Many expressed interest in learning more about artificial intelligence, robotics, animation, mobile application development and other digital technologies.

The workshop was advised by CFS academic Mr Ling Kock Sheng, with Ms Yeoh Li-Cheng serving as the STEM project lead and Ms Liang Chooi Ling as the project coordinator. Mrs B A Jesica Malani binti B A Sugathapala led the training and judging team alongside Mr Khoo Kah Yeang and Ms Yeoh.

By placing programming within a familiar road safety scenario, the workshop gave beginners an accessible way to understand the role of technology in everyday life. It also allowed UTAR students to contribute as team leaders, helping younger learners work through challenges while gaining experience in guidance and peer facilitation.