Minecraft used To Teach Children Molecular Chemistry

Minecraft used to teach children molecular chemistry

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

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

Our goal is to involve young scientists in fun and interactive ways.

Minecraft players build with blocks to create structure and landscapes.

They are also encouraged to find treasure and many other items.

'Fiendishly difficult'

The students designed the project with the help 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 to explore the structures of landscapes, buildings, and even anatomy.

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

"This draws their attention. It is a really novel way of engaging them and delivering information to them."

As well as structures and molecules to explore, the students have created numerous other fun things for kids to explore and find.

Dr. Lorch said: "You can just explore and learn about the molecules. There are also treasure chests with books, puzzles and other goodies.

"Some are easy to locate but others are extremely difficult. You'll likely have learned a fair amount of chemistry if you manage to locate all.

Outreach

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

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

It is also used in primary schools for teaching basic science, such as how atoms are formed to make molecules.

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

This isn't the first time Minecraft has been used for engaging children with scientific subjects.

A world has been designed to teach quantum physics and numerous schools in Northern Ireland are using an modified version of the program to encourage writers and encourage students in city planning.

Unique Minecraft project for schools

25 March 2015

University of Hull