
MATT ARNOLD
WEB & GAME DEVELOPER
Develops websites, apps, and games with HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Lua, Python, and game engines
CURRICULUM DEVELOPER
Designs learning experiences with principles from constructivism and connectivism theories
PIXEL ARTIST & CREATIVE CODER
Creates low-res pixel art, animations, and sprites; Codes digital and interactive art
COMPUTER SCIENCE EDUCATOR
Teaches coding, video game dev, and robotics; Volunteers with student competitions
BIO

My father introduced me to BASIC programming at a young age. I built several computer games, graphics, and animations using an Olivetti M20 computer. Ever since, I've enjoyed coding, creating games, and building digital spaces. I'm fascinated with web technologies, video game development, and electronics.
I have a passion for modern art and retro video game aesthetics. I'm a low-res pixel artist, and I enjoy creating tiny characters and objects on 8x8 or 16x16 pixel grids. Some of these pixelated sprites are used in my games, but several of them just find their way into my collection of animated art.
I began my teaching career as a special education teacher where I led the use of assistive and instructional technology. I earned my master's degree in educational technology and curriculum from Ball State University (BSU) where I studied the use of Python, a programming language, with elementary students to teach mathematics, specifically geometry concepts.
While working at Project Lead The Way (PLTW), I led the design and development of an online physical computing curriculum. As part of that project, I established an educational technology partnership with Microsoft MakeCode and the Micro:bit Educational Foundation. I also designed professional development and trained cohorts of licensed middle school educators in physical computing and computer science instruction.
I recently led the Digital Learning Team at ECPI University. We designed and developed web-based digital learning games, simulations, and instructional media for students and faculty. Currently I'm a curriculum developer for CodeHS and manage web development and game design courses. I'm a licensed computer science teacher in the State of Indiana, a member of the Computer Science Teachers Association (CSTA) and the International Game Developers Association (IGDA), and a volunteer referee/juror for robotics and video game development student competitions.
I tend to read novels and watch movies of the sci-fi and cyberpunk genres. I'm a coffee fanatic who loves jamming to electric swing, electronic, or alternative pop music. I enjoy playing games, taking walks with our dog, and just laughing with my family.