A teacher from Devon has been named among this year’s annual cohort of Minecraft mentors.
Siobhán Morgan, a computer science coordinator at Exeter Junior School, is one of more than 300 mentors from 70 countries selected to advocate for the game to teachers around the world.
The mentor programme recognises educators who have committed to teaching with Minecraft: Education Edition, providing feedback and support to others in the community, and advocating for game-based learning.
With more than 200 million copies sold, Minecraft is the best-selling video game of all time, with 126 million monthly active users.
“Minecraft is great because it lets you create whatever you can imagine,” said Morgan.
“It is easy to build what may not be possible in real life. What I love is that everyone has different Minecraft knowledge, so all the pupils help each other to solve problems and I always learn new things.”
What I love is that everyone has different Minecraft knowledge, so all the pupils help each other to solve problems and I always learn new things – Siobhán Morgan, Exeter Junior School
Once confirmed in the role, mentors “have a chance to connect and build relationships with some of the most inspiring game-based learning educators and experts from around the world”, according to the game’s developer, Microsoft. They are also offered early access to new features and sign-ups for beta opportunities.
Morgan is keen to promote the use of the game in education, inspiring peers across the globe to build worlds, make lessons, give webinars, and promote game-based learning and Minecraft.
“In the junior school, we use Minecraft across the curriculum, both on iPads and in our computer room,” she explained. “During Roman Week, we explored the baths in Bath and how Exeter was in Roman times.
“Form one pupils explored the Fantastic Mr Fox world to supplement their English lessons, [others] rebuilt the pyramids during Egyptian day, and pupils in RS collaboratively built synagogues after learning about Judaism. We also have lunchtime clubs, so that all year groups get the opportunity to enjoy Minecraft.”
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