Prodigy Learning Partnership Brings CS Curriculum and Assessments to Minecraft
Activity Assessment screen from Prodigy Learning's Coding in Minecraft, a computer science credential program delivered through Minecraft Education. (Photo: Business Wire)
Prodigy Learning and Minecraft Education have partnered to bring computer science (CS) and coding skills to learners through the immersive world of Minecraft.
The collaboration is kicking off with Prodigy Learning's Coding in Minecraft program, a CS credential program that "engages young and diverse learners through game-based learning in an immersive computer science and coding curriculum and rewards their learning with industry recognized credentials," according to a news announcement. A second Cyber program is planned for fall 2024. Both products will be available for licensing through Microsoft and channel resellers, in addition to existing Prodigy Learning channels.
Coding in Minecraft has already been adopted in a number of school systems, including in Alaska, Idaho, North Carolina, South Carolina, Washington State, Northern Ireland, and New South Wales, the announcement said.
"The partnership between Minecraft Education and Prodigy Learning marks a significant milestone in educational technology," commented Andrew Flood, chief executive officer of Prodigy Learning, in a statement. "By combining the strengths of both organizations, we are setting a new standard for game-based learning and assessment, opening doors to endless possibilities for student achievement and growth. In the age of AI, our partnership will help build the workforce of tomorrow and create economic opportunity."
"At the heart of this partnership is a shared commitment to empowering educators and engaging students," said Allison Matthews, head of Minecraft Education at Microsoft. "We are bringing together Minecraft Education's game-based learning platform and Prodigy Learning's expertise in credentialing to create a comprehensive educational experience. This will enable students to gain critical skills such as computational thinking, reasoning and problem solving for in-demand job roles."
For more information, visit the Coding in Minecraft site.
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Rhea Kelly is editor in chief for Campus Technology, THE Journal, and Spaces4Learning. She can be reached at rkelly@1105media.com.