Game-based learning has been shown to increase student engagement, foster social-emotional learning, and motivate students to take healthy risks. Two online games have proven to be extremely popular amongst the youth; in fact, you’ve probably already heard of Minecraft and Roblox. 

So, what exactly is game-based learning and how do games like Minecraft and Roblox foster a love of STEM? Here’s the breakdown. 

Game-based learning (GBL) uses games as a vessel for learning, but it’s about more than just having fun and scoring points — it’s a research-based practice used to enhance instruction, cultivate collaboration, and meet specific learning goals. GBL can be implemented in person or online, but due to the need for social distancing, we are seeing more digital game-based learning platforms on the curriculum. 

Two of the most popular digital games among today’s students are Roblox and Minecraft. Surely these computer games can’t be good for kids, right? — Wrong! A 2013 study found that users who played video games for 30 minutes a day over a two-month period showed an increase in grey matter compared to those who did not partake in the games. The increase in grey matter was found in the areas of the brain involved in spatial navigation, memory formation, fine motor skills of the hands, and strategic planning.

 

Games like Minecraft and Roblox allow students to use coding skills in order to create and modify gaming experiences. Minecraft: Education Edition allows parents and teachers to design or choose games that meet specific learning outcomes. With the Minecraft software, you also receive lesson plans, follow up activities, and instructional videos. Roblox also includes some basic coding tutorials. 

Not only will students learn coding skills, they will also learn to think like scientists, mathematicians, and engineers to solve problems and build their own games. So, which game should you choose- Roblox or Minecraft? The answer is that it depends. Minecraft Education Edition comes with comprehensive resources and lesson plans that align with school standards for math, science, ELA, ancient history, and space exploration. The top tier resources you get with Minecraft really make it stand out against other online educational games. 

On the other hand, Roblox provides fewer educational resources but gives players more freedom in designing their own games. Roblox uses the coding language Lua, which allows users to design more complex codes than they would in Minecraft. Overall, if your child is brand new to coding and gaming, Minecraft is a great place to start. If your child already knows some coding fundamentals, Roblox is the place for them to practice using what they know and challenge themselves. 

Both Minecraft and Roblox provide an engaging way for students to develop STEM skills. Use Minecraft’s plethora of resources to introduce your child to coding and other educational topics, or let them show off their skills in Roblox to create their own games!

Club Z! Tutoring of Glenbrook specializes in providing individualized, in-home, and virtual tutoring for students K-12 in Northbrook and Glenview. If you want your child to work on developing skills that will translate to improved grades and self-esteem, contact us today at: bbalatsos@clubztutoring.com.