Microsoft has launched Gold Mine, an online portal dedicated to helping teachers utilize the popular web game Minecraft in the classroom.
Referred to as an educational approach to motivate student learning by using video game design and game elements in learning environments, Gamification is a popular buzzword in education today.
Many educators have noted an increase in student engagement as well student learning and success when implementing gamification into their lessons.
More Numbers:
97% of teachers polled said that Whooo’s Reading, a gamified learning platform, motivated their students to read more. (Learn2Earn)
Approximately 80% of learners said they would be more productive if their learning or job was more game-like.
More than 60% of learners say that leader boards and friendly competition motivates them.(Talent LMS)
97% of kids play computer and video games, making gamification an effective way to keep students engaged in the classroom. (Ry-Jenkins)
Game design fundamentals such as constant challenge and feedback, meaningful context, freedom to experiment and explore while playing different roles enables teachers to design learning environments that are engaging, fun, and connected.
Minecraft is like a virtual Lego game that allows players to create structures in a 3D environment. From learning ratios and proportions to acting out a scene of a play, teachers get creative with Minecraft as a learning tool.
The Gold Mine portal will allow teachers share their ideas and receive inspiration in an online forum. The newly launched site is currently sparse on resources, but given the popularity and constructive nature of the game you can expect it to be populated with some pretty amazing ideas soon.
Click here for more information about using gamification in the classroom.