Game-Based Learning via Minecraft

Minecraft is a “sandbox” video game that can be leveraged in a variety of ways to support design thinking and enrich curriculum via game-based learning. Users create explore, discover and share within a virtual world. Educators are integrating Minecraft into science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) content areas. Recent upgrades to Minecraft have incorporated a virtual reality (VR)  component via Google Cardboard and Samsung’s Oculus Rift.

Minecraft in Action: Students in an after school program worked together to build their school in Minecraft using actual measurements. Students calculated the number of blocks they would need for each room, performed measurement conversions, and learned how to estimate for external structures.

Digital Learning Platform: Minecraft is a student centered and interactive game application that engages students to generate predictions, improving cognitive processing experiences.