Notes

Minecraft was used To Teach Children Molecular Chemistry

Minecraft used to teach children molecular chemistry



5 November 2015



Virtual world-building game Minecraft, played by millions of children around the world, could be used in schools to teach children chemistry.



A group of Hull University students created an educational version of the game that lets players investigate specially designed molecular structures and understand the science behind.



Our aim is to involve young scientists in engaging and fun ways.



Minecraft players use building blocks for landscapes and structure.



They are encouraged to look for treasures and other things.



'Fiendishly difficult'



Joel Mills, a Minecraft expert at the university as well as Dr Mark Lorch, a senior lecturer in biological chemical chemistry assisted the students in creating the project.



Dr Lorch stated that "Minecraft is an amazing tool for examining the structure of landscapes and buildings as well as anatomy."



"So why not molecules? We showed it to a class of children the other day and there were lots of gasps and wows.



"This really grabs their interest. It is a really novel method of engaging the audience and providing relevant information to them."



Alongside the chemistry and structures Students have designed numerous other fun things for kids to explore and find.



Dr Lorch stated that you can simply explore the molecules and then read the information. There are also treasure chests with books, puzzles and other treasures.



Certain are easy to locate Some are easy to locate, while others are more difficult. If you locate them all , you'll likely have learned a bit of chemistry on the way."



Outreach



Dr Lorch, who also has an obligation to inspire young people with science, said: "If I've given them this information in a Minecraft world and shown them how to access it, then they're much more likely to discover more about it than if I have given the information in the form of a PowerPoint presentation."



The Hull team is currently playing the game, MolCraft, in secondary schools in London as part a variety of university outreach projects.



But it can be utilized in primary schools to teach basic science, such as how atoms form together to form molecules.
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It can also be found on Minecraft's educational library, which includes versions for teachers and pupils.



This isn't the first time Minecraft has been used to help children engage with science-related topics.



A world has been created to teach quantum physics. Many schools in Northern Ireland have adapted it to encourage creative writing and to engage young people in city planning.



Unique Minecraft project for schools



25 March 2015



Are parents worried about Minecraft?



30 March 2015



University of Hull


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