Science Hunters - using Minecraft as an engagement tool

Hobbs, L.K.

Abstract

Science Hunters is an outreach project based in Lancaster Environment Centre, Lancaster University, which uses Minecraft to engage children in science learning and environmental science research. We offer opportunities across all year groups in schools, at public events such as community days and festivals, and at a regular Minecraft Club held on campus in association with the National Autistic Society. The project targets children from Widening Participation backgrounds (those who may face a barrier to accessing Higher Education) and has a particular focus on children with Special Educational Needs. We find that children who come to us at events outside school are predominantly of primary school age, and for several years we have been funded to deliver activities in primary as well as secondary schools. Alongside other regions, we deliver sessions in Bristol primary schools from Reception age up, and receive overwhelmingly positive feedback. Minecraft is an extremely useful tool for engaging children with science learning as it is interactive, can be used to demonstrate real-world processes which can’t otherwise be replicated in a classroom, and appeals to and engages children as it is a hugely popular game in which they often feel they have expertise.

• Presentation Conference Type: Presentation / Talk
• Conference Name: Curiosity Connections 2017
• Start Date: Nov 23, 2017
• End Date: Nov 23, 2017
• Acceptance Date: Nov 23, 2017
• Peer Reviewed: Not Peer Reviewed
• Keywords: Science Hunters, Minecraft, engagement tool
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/878195
• Additional Information: Title of Conference or Conference Proceedings : Curiosity Connections 2017