Though it's lost some steam during the past couple years, Minecraft is a useful STEM tool. Over the last decade, kids around the world have participated in various challenges using the game. Recognizing the distinct connection between the virtual building they do in the Minecraft world and computational thinking and coding, many educators have jumped at the chance to use it in the classroom. It helps re-energize and engage countless students who, for whatever reason, may not respond to more traditional instruction. For students who are passionate about gaming, however, this has been a very effective alternative. Best of all, there are some trusted STEAM solutions that offer Minecraft integrations and connections. Plus, it's appealing and even useful for students in many grade levels. For that reason, we certainly see the educational potential of Minecraft and its various benefits.
Besides aligning with STEM tools, the platform provides students with more academic gaming experiences. It's similar to the traditional Minecraft game they've likely explored before. Using Minecraft in academics, students can learn to tell stories and improve their writing and communication skills. When paired with other educational technologies, like the Kano Computer, pi-top, or Piper Computer, other fun possibilities also emerge. Students can build these three computers themselves and then take part in the Minecraft lessons when they're ready. This is, understandably, our preferred way to promote using Minecraft in the classroom. Once they jump in, the potential for STEAM exploration and coding are each extensive. Students can design their own worlds, boost their creativity, and even develop some key soft skills along the way.
We all know that kids today love technology. Whether it’s tablets, smartphones, laptops, or whatever else they play with, once they hit nine or 10 years old, they seem to be glued to some sort of device. A lot of these children are sitting in front of computers and bettering themselves at the same time. That’s right—they’re playing Minecraft.
The Kano team now has a bundled kit complete with a screen and we put that to the test in our office for this edition of the Eduporium Experiment. Just following the instructions was enough because the included illustrations are very clear and easy to follow. I didn’t have to Google anything or spend any extra time pulling up YouTube videos.
