In May, 6th and 7th grade students from High Meadows School were given the assignment of a lifetime. The progressive learning school is among 100 schools in 30 countries around the world to Beta test Minecraft’s new Education Edition, which is set for release this summer. Minecraft has become one of the most popular online games in the world, and has set its sights on working with teachers globally to build out lesson plans and share learning activity ideas.

Over the last two years, High Meadows has been integrating Minecraft into its music curriculum under the leadership of music co-director, Paula Williams. Students have been testing this Beta version during their band class twice a week, and the build they are working on is a new band room for the school.

“My favorite thing about Minecraft as a tool in education is meeting kids where they are in their real-world life in the classroom,” says Williams. “I love the multi-age collaboration and excitement that Minecraft brings to their learning. Minecraft allows kids to dream big dreams by creating freely in a world that otherwise would not exist for them.”

The creators of Minecraft are hoping High Meadows, and the other schools taking part, will help fine-tune the experience across a diverse set of learning environments. In June, the new Education Edition will be released with an early access program for educators to download, try for free, and provide feedback. This early access edition will be available in 11 languages and 41 countries.

 

What are your thoughts on the Minecraft Education Edition? Could this be helpful for students? Please share below!