Minecraft in the class

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Minecraft is an immensely popular adventure game for computers and tablets. Although the tablet version doesn’t talk to the computer edition, it still boats an interesting gaming atmosphere. 

We use MinecraftEdu regularly in science class. Not only is it an instant motivator, much of the games core functions integrate with the science curriculum. Throw in the need for teamwork, problem solving and leadership and you have a rich educational experience.

Just like most technology, Minecraft is just a tool. Some educators forget this and assume that it can be used to teach new concepts like some sort of interactive textbook. Our science class uses it to reinforce learning. Since most of the students are familiar with the game, there is little to be learned. Instead we send them off into the virtual world with a set of newly learned skills and evaluate how they are used. An easy example is biomes. The students identify the common characteristics between real deserts and Minecraft deserts. They seek to improve the ecological experience by adding animals and materials that make the work more realistic. 

Check out the short video below to find out how Minecraft can be a valuable tool in the class.