Share Paper: Minecraft Gaming for Side-by-Side STEM Middle School Aerospace Engineering Learning

  1. Gilbert Kalonde, Montana State University, United States
  2. Nicholas Lux, Montana State University, United States
Thursday, March 24 3:00 PM-4:00 PM Harborside Center

Abstract: Researchers investigated the use of a Minecraft and Engineering summer camp on rising 6th graders focused on aeronautics, aerospace, astronomy and related fields, and delivered using Minecraft. The summer camp, with its concurrent and ensuing professional development for preservice teachers, used Minecraft gaming software to explore aerospace-related applications. More specifically, researchers examined the result of the Minecraft engineering work on students’ interest in STEM-related fields. Additionally, researchers studied the influence the Minecraft engineering camp had on preservice teachers’ comfort in teaching STEM disciplines with interactive games. Data are currently being collected and analyzed, and will be included in full proceedings.