Interactivity and Engagement for Minecraft Education

Minecraft: Education Edition (M:EE) is a rendition of the popular video game Minecraft. From the learning game links provided this week, M:EE caught my attention because developers could transform game elements to create a practical teaching approach via video games.

The gamification of Minecraft in education has enabled educational institutions to explore alternative methods of teaching students. Minecraft as a tool has many elements that can influence students to learn effectively. The primary aspect of gamification in learning is that it allows students to build and participate in project-based learning (Park, 2018).

Obtained from Minecraft Education Edition

Elements of Minecraft Education

M:EE has multiple elements, which makes it a valuable educational tool. M:EE can help build on STEM skills and inspire students to unleash creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration.

Education-specific Features

M:EE contains specific features and tools within the game that can help students facilitate their learning. M:EE education is equipped with a camera, portfolio, and journal to allow students to make observations and share with other students.

Code Builder

The code builder is an in-game coding assistant that enables students to create commands and will allow the game to do certain activities. The code builder is an excellent way to teach coding fundamentals.

Chemistry

The chemistry resource in the M:EE is an effective tool in introducing learners to introductory chemistry concepts and allows students to discover ways to combine certain compounds to create fascinating in-game items and conduct science experiments.

Lesson Plans

The most powerful element that the M:EE has is its endless library of lesson plans. These lesson plans include a variety of subjects and even come supplied with custom worlds that students can use to implement their learning

How does Minecraft: Education Edition improve learning and engagement?

  • Encourages meaningful student-led learning where the students can own their knowledge and build confidence through their education.
  • Support virtual learning in a way where in-class learning can be applied within the game.
  • Encourages collaboration amongst peers and facilitates empathy and critical social-emotional skills.
  • Teaches students how to prepare for future workplace skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity.

Ultimately, the factor that facilitates engagement within the classroom is the creativity and student-led learning aspect. Minecraft: Education Edition allows students to apply what they learned in school to the video game. From my experience with video games, I was always fascinated by the creativity you can have within a specific game. A game such as Minecraft: Education Edition would have allowed me to explore my learning further by applying them within M:EE. Making classroom activities fun by implementing them into video games increases engagement by allowing students to enjoy playing with their acquired knowledge.

Example of teaching with Minecraft: Education Edition

References

Park, M. (2018, July 9). Gamification Through Minecraft – Technology and the Curriculum: Summer 2018. Pressbooks. https://pressbooks.pub/techandcurriculum/chapter/minecraft/