Computer Explorers Releases Newest TechStars Curriculum Using MinecraftEdu for Ages 8 and Up
Cypress, Texas (PRWEB) September 26, 2013 -- The newest TechStars curriculum by technology education provider Computer Explorers is Minecraft: Desert Island Survival. In the course, students ages 8 and up will be fully engaged as they work collaboratively on a private server to build and expand upon a 3D immersive world exclusively designed for Computer Explorers.
“Minecraft is an open-ended tool that can be used to effectively integrate technology into the classroom. Current thought is that nearly 80% of future careers will require some science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) skills. Every possible means must be used to cultivate the interest of our youth in these fields. We believe Minecraft: Desert Island Survival is an effective means,” says Computer Explorers Curriculum and Program Development Director Elizabeth Marion.
Students will work in Survival Mode which requires them to take into account resources, hunger, tools and more. They have to explore in order to collect resources and process what they find, such as smelting ore to create metal. As they develop their world, the students gain insight into the various elements of survival, settlement and exploration in a way that keeps them constantly observing, hypothesizing and testing. “Our course fully engages students while promoting individual creativity and building teamwork skills,” says Marion.
Minecraft: Desert Island Survival aligns well with the National Educational Technology Standards for Students(NETS-S) by creating original works as a means of a personal group expression, using models or simulations to explore complex systems and issues, promoting communication and collaboration with project teams, and allowing students to plan and manage activities to develop a solution.
Preschools and elementary schools can learn more about Minecraft: Desert Island Survival and other TechStars curricula by visiting the COMPUTER EXPLORERS website. Email Computer Explorers’ ryoung(at)iced(dot)net or call her at 800-531-5053 for more information.
ABOUT COMPUTER EXPLORERS
COMPUTER EXPLORERS is a technology education provider that helps preschool and elementary-aged children reach their full potential by using technology as a tool to engage them, enhance the educational process and prepare them for the future. Preschool and elementary administrators should contact COMPUTER EXPLORERS to find out how to bring TechStars programs into their schools. Parents are invited to use COMPUTER EXPLORERS’ program locator to find TechStars programs close to home.
Renee Young, COMPUTER EXPLORERS, http://www.computerexplorers.com/, 800-531-5053, [email protected]
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