Minecraft: Education Edition is a version of the popular Minecraft game that is specifically designed for classroom learning. It contains many great features that make Minecraft more effective and easy to use in the classroom, including:
Table of Contents
Single Sign On (SSO)
Education Edition integrates with school networks for easy login using existing credentials. Students and teachers can access their school accounts to play.
Lesson Plans
There is a built-in library of lesson plans across various subjects that educators can use and customize. Activities are designed to teach curriculum concepts.
Classroom Mode
An accompanying app shows teachers a map view of the Minecraft world. Teachers can track students, chat with them, and teleport students if needed.
Secure Multiplayer
Students can collaborate through multiplayer servers that are restricted to only users within the same school tenant for safety.
Coding
Students can use block-based coding to manipulate the Minecraft world, teaching programming logic and skills.
Getting Started
As an educator interested in using Minecraft: Education Edition, here are the main steps to get your classroom up and running:
1. Sign Up for a Trial
Go to education.minecraft.net and register for a free trial. This will allow you to test out the software with students before purchasing.
2. Download the Software
Have students download and install Minecraft: Education Edition on their devices from the website. It is available on Windows, Mac, Chromebooks, iPads, Android tablets, and more.
3. Learn the Basics
Spend time going through beginner tutorials to learn classroom management controls, gameplay basics, and how to find and use lessons.
4. Run a Simple Lesson
Try out a short 1-hour lesson on introductory coding concepts. See how students respond and get comfortable with the technology.
5. Purchase Licenses
Once ready to fully implement, licenses can be purchased through the Minecraft: Education Edition website. There are volume discounts available.
6. Set Up Multiplayer Worlds
Create multiplayer worlds for classes to collaborate in. The software handles user authentication and keeps the worlds private.
7. Build Your Own Content
Use the simple building tools to design custom worlds, challenges, and lessons tailored to your curriculum and classroom needs.
Benefits for Engagement
The immersive, game-based environment of Minecraft: Education Edition helps teachers to more deeply engage students. Students are motivated to explore lessons and collaboratively problem solve in ways not possible through traditional methods. The ability to manipulate and build within the Minecraft world creates active, hands-on learning opportunities. Coding lessons allow students to see the tangible effects of their programs. Overall, the platform sparks curiosity, creativity, and passion for learning.
As an educator, implementing a new technology in the classroom can seem daunting. However, with the right guidance and support, bringing Minecraft: Education Edition into your teaching can greatly benefit student engagement and learning outcomes. Follow the steps above to get started on your Minecraft journey today!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Minecraft: Education Edition cost?
It costs $5 per user per year for education pricing, with volume discounts available. There is also a free trial to test it out.
What subjects can I teach with Minecraft?
Minecraft applies well to teach science, math, history, coding, sustainability, art, and more. There are pre-made lessons available across subjects.
What devices can students use Minecraft on?
Minecraft works on Windows, Mac, Chromebook, iPad, Android tablets, iPhone, and Android phones. Students can play on nearly any device!
Is there a way for teachers to control the Minecraft environment?
Yes, Classroom Mode gives teachers a high level map view to track students, chat with them, and teleport students if needed.
Can students collaborate together?
Absolutely! Students can join multiplayer worlds to work collaboratively on projects, problem solve, and role play scenarios together.
I have over 10 years of experience using Minecraft and other game-based learning tools in my middle school classroom. I have seen first-hand how immersive technologies can positively impact student engagement and comprehension. By following the steps I outlined, you will be set up for a successful experience using Minecraft: Education Edition with your students. It does have a learning curve, but the platform is very intuitive and with a bit of practice you will discover countless ways to integrate this tool into engaging lessons. Please reach out if you have any other questions! This technology truly can transform your classroom.
