Teaching kids can be tough, so why not use their favorite game to win them over?
Microsoft announced today that Minecraft: Education Edition has officially launched in 50 countries. This version of the block-building sensation strives to teach kids in the classroom by promoting creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving. Minecraft has sold over 106 million copies across all of its platforms, notably attracting an enthusiastic, young audience. That could make it a useful tool to get children excited about learning.
The Education Edition had been available in early access, but now schools will need to pay $5 per user, per year. However, the full release comes with the Classroom Mode companion app, which gives teachers a tool for supervising and aiding students in the game.
“Over 35,000 students and educators have participated in this program and provided feedback to help us fine-tune the experience across a diverse set of learning environments, including a STEM summer camp program in New York City and classrooms around the world,” developer Mojang noted on Minecraft’s website.
Let’s just hope that all of those kids don’t begin to resent Minecraft for trying to teach them.