What is Minecraft?
Minecraft is a pixilated video game that enables anyone to create whatever they want, without limit or explicit objectives (Ellison, 2016 & Lorence, 2015). Anyone can jump onto the game and build their own world on their own, or collaboratively. They can use unlimited resources to create anything they desire (Lorence, 2015). Minecraft can be used in a variety of ways within the base game mode but also by adding other things too. By combining Minecraft with other applications, such as Tynker, students can learn to code with the creativity of using mods in Minecraft (Blair-Hickman, 2017). Minecraft is a highly popular game, with 100 million users of both youth and adults, which is why it is likely that your students may already play it, if not it is an easy game to use (Ellison, 2016).
Below is a clip from a school which demonstrates them different ways students can use Minecraft.
Can Minecraft Foster Creativity?
When first looking into Minecraft, it can be easy to see how art, design and technology and even history can easily benefit from the use of this game. Students can become active learners by creating in game objects, designs and world but for some teachers, Minecraft may seem out of reach (Ellison, 2016). In order for Minecraftto foster creativity in these other subjects, teacher may have to put a bit of thought into how it can be used, but once they have, they can create many lessons which encourage creativity and boost academic performance in their classrooms (Ellison, 2016). These lessons can allow for a space which students can creatively work out problems and create things in a collaborative way (Callaghan, 2016). Minecraft has a simple interface with endless possibilities which allows for students to truly explore their creativity within the game. Many schools have used Minecraft to explore many different subjects in their classroom, using in game quizzes, creating ancient civilisations, maths and science adventures. These different lesson templates have created a virtual classroom for students to learn in (Lorence, 2015). Minecraft can be used to foster creativity within the classroom while also teaching students vital content for their learning. It allows students to take control of their own learning and go from being a passive learner to an active learner as they have a hands on manipulation of the problems they are solving or the objects they are creating (Ellison, 2016). By harnessing the power of Minecraft, teachers can create a fun, engaging and creative virtual classroom that has the potential to engage all students.
Bibliography:
Blair-Hickman, A. (2017). Minecraft with modding tynker. Nurture: The Voice of the National Union of Associations for Christian Parent-controlled Schools, 51(1), 18-19.
Callaghan, N. (2016). Investigating the Role of Minecraft in Educational Learning Environments. Educational Media International, 53(4), 244-260.
Ellison, T., & Evans, J. (2016). “Minecraft,” Teachers, Parents, and Learning: What They Need to Know and Understand. School Community Journal, 26(2), 25-43.
Lorence, M. (2015). School of Minecraft. School Library Journal,61(4), N/a.
Asha Beaton 
Hi Asha, I really enjoyed learning about how minecraft can contribute and foster student creativity. I like how students can take control of their own learning with the almost endless possibilities in terms of creativity, giving these students the opportunity to express themselves. Not only are students able to express themselves creatively, they are also able to view learning much more visually than in a traditional “work-sheet” lesson. With this being said, I wonder if students may go on a “tangent” during these lessons by going off-task. The teacher should have an engaging lesson (which you’ve mentioned examples of) and clear rules and expectations beforehand. Overall, I think minecraft can definitely foster creativity as well as promoting problem solving skills!
Ollie
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Hi Asha,
Your blog post on Minecraft was very interesting and insightful. The layout you have used makes the post easy to navigate and understand and the choice of media included adds variety do the information presented. Your post is well written with relevant academic articles.
The use of minecraft for educational purposes is an idea I have heard once before but have not seen much research done on the benefits. As you have stated, the simple yet extensive game model can be used in many different ways to foster creativity by allowing children to explore and create in an environment that is comfortable to them. I especially liked the list you have included that states the different ways teachers have used minecraft in the classroom. This helps me visualise the potential the game holds when used in an academic setting.
Well done on your first post, it was a pleasure to read.
Nick
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