Communication Tool #1

Communication Tool #1

MinecraftEdu (minecraftedu.com)
MinecraftEdu is a way for teachers to integrate the popular children’s game Minecraft into the classroom for interactive collaborative experiences in the classroom. Teachers have used MinecraftEdu, a modified classroom program, to help their students in math, English, science, STEM and social studies lessons. This is a wonderful article too about the educational uses of this site; Minecraft: Gamifying the Classroom with Minecraft – the Possibilities are Powerful and Endless!  I was excited to read a few ways that a third grade teacher has incorporated this tool in her classroom!

Early Elementary Technology Tool Rubric

	Score 1-DNM 2-PM 3-M 4-E	Notes
Safety	3	Teachers are in control of the student data.
Student Enjoyability	4	A majority of students are already fully experienced and excited about Minecraft, so to use this fantastic tool to motivate students in STEM, social studies and English is fantastic! It is extremely entertaining and exciting for students.
Accessibility	3	This program appears easy to access and will get even easier for teachers who have never used or seen Minecraft to maneuver without too much student help.  Compared to other technology it appears to be low cost. There is a fee; however, I think the fee is worth it due to the high motivating student interactions.
Feedback (When Applicable)	3	Teachers can give meaningful feedback.
Higher Level Thinking	4	Students will use many critical thinking skills to explore and create ancient civilizations, learn geology through mining for minerals, etc… Student will definitely develop many standards required in PBE.