Notes

Minecraft used To Teach Children Molecular Chemistry

Minecraft used to teach children molecular chemical



5 November 2015



The game of virtual world building Minecraft is played by millions of children around the globe, could be used in schools to teach the science of chemistry.



A group of students from Hull University created an educational version of the game. It lets players explore molecular structures created specifically for them, and learn about the science behind.



Our goal is to engage young scientists in engaging and enjoyable ways.



Minecraft players use building blocks to create structures and landscapes.



They are encouraged to find treasure and other items.



'Fiendishly difficult'



The students designed the project with the assistance of the university's Minecraft expert, Joel Mills, and senior lecturer in biological chemistry Dr. Mark Lorch.



Dr. Lorch said: "Minecraft is a fabulous tool for exploring structures of landscapes, buildings, and even anatomy.



"So why not molecules?" We demonstrated it to a group of kids the other day, and there were many wows and gasps.



"This draws their attention. It's an innovative method to engage them and deliver information to them.



As well as structures and molecules to explore Students have designed numerous other fun things for kids to explore and discover.



Dr Lorch has stated that you can simply explore the molecules and read the details. There's also a whole load of treasure chests dotted around packed with treasures, puzzles and quiz books.



Some are easy to locate Some are easy to locate, while others are more difficult. Thinkofdeath You'll probably have learned a lot of chemistry if you can locate them all.



Outreach



Dr. Lorch also plays a part in engaging young people in science. She said: "If they see this information in a Minecraft environment and are given the means to access it, then they will be more likely to go to the website to look it up."



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



However, it can be utilized in elementary schools to teach fundamental science such as how atoms come together to form molecules.



It's also available on Minecraft's educational library, which includes versions for students and teachers.



This isn't the only time Minecraft has been used to get children involved with science-related topics.



A world has been developed to teach quantum physics and many schools in Northern Ireland are using an adapted version to inspire creative writing and engage young people in urban planning.



Unique Minecraft project for schools



25 March 2015



Are parents concerned about Minecraft?



30 March 2015



University of Hull


Website: https://thinkofdeath.co.uk/