Computing with Minecraft program (ages 6-8) is specially designed computer science content for students in lower primary.

Students will learn, practice, and apply relevant computer science skills and concepts in both unplugged and digital experiences. The lessons are designed to provide students with an opportunity to build knowledge of the coding concept(s) in an unplugged version, practice the concept in the Minecraft world by manually completing the task, and then finally complete the coding task to grasp how coding can support efficiency and creativity.

Computing with Minecraft will provide students with an entry point into coding and an overview of Minecraft:Education Edition and Code Builder.

First, students will “meet” their Agent and learn how to move their Agent in different directions, use their inventory, and try out their first building challenge.

Next, students will design and code a road network, buildings, and houses in their Minecraft City. Then, students will create a park with water features, paths, and flower.

After that, students will create a zoo with an entrance, paths, and animal enclosures. Finally, students will code and animate a wind farm along with a lighting system to provide wind power for Minecraft City.

As an integral part of this unit, students will learn about having a coding mindset and how to use computational thinking to solve tasks and problems. Once they have familiarized themselves with their Agent, they will complete their coding adventure—planning and building out the rest of their Minecraft City!

What is Minecraft Programming?

Minecraft is the world’s best selling video game for a reason – it inspires creativity, innovation and allows its players to experiment in a world with infinite possibilities. Within Minecraft education,  students will apply the block-based coding language of MakeCode to complete interactive challenges, create minigames, and understand the fundamentals of artificial intelligence; all completely inside of Minecraft. Minecraft Education Edition’s game-based coding offers a more interactive and engaging way for students to grasp concepts of programming and computing, while being infinitely more entertaining than conventional programming languages.