p>Minecraft used to teach children molecular chemistry
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p>The game of virtual world building Minecraft which is played by millions of kids across the globe could be used in schools to teach Chemistry.
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p>A group of students from Hull University created an educational version of the game. It allows players to discover molecular structures that were specifically designed for them and to understand the chemistry behind them.
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p>Our aim is to engage young scientists in fun and interactive ways.
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p>Minecraft players make use of building blocks to create structures and landscapes.
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p>They are encouraged to look for treasure and other things.
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p>'Fiendishly difficult'
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p>Joel Mills, a Minecraft expert at the university as well as Dr Mark Lorch, a senior lecturer in biological chemical chemistry helped the students create the project.
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p>Dr Lorch said that "Minecraft is an incredible tool to explore the structures of landscapes and buildings, and also anatomy."
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p>"So why not molecules? https://1so.in/ We showed it to a class of children the other day, and there were lots of wows and gasps.
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p>"This really grabs their attention. It's a unique way to engage them and give information to them.
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p>As well as structures and molecules to explore, the students have created many other exciting things for children to roam around and find.
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p>Dr. Lorch said: "You can just explore and read about the molecules. There are also treasure chests scattered about with books, puzzles and other goodies.
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p>Certain are easy to find and others are more difficult to find. You'll probably have learned a lot of chemistry if you manage to find them all.
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p>Outreach
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p>Dr Lorch who also has the responsibility of involving young scientists, said: "If I've given them this information in a Minecraft world and showed how to access it, they're more likely to go and learn more about it than if I've given it in a PowerPoint? presentation."
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p>The Hull team is currently experimenting with the game, which is called MolCraft?, in a number of secondary schools in London as part of various university outreach projects.
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p>It can also be used in primary schools to teaching fundamental science concepts, such as how molecules are made of atoms. molecules.
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p>It is also available in Minecraft's educational library that includes versions for students and teachers.
/p>
p>This is not the first time Minecraft has been used to engage children with scientific topics.
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p>A world has been designed to teach quantum physics, and many schools in Northern Ireland are using an adapted version to inspire creativity in writing and to engage young people in city planning.
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p>Unique Minecraft project for schools
/p>
p>25 March 2015
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p>University of Hull
/p>
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