Microsoft has bought MinecraftEdu. It is a special version of Minecraft made for schools. Microsoft will launch Minecraft: Education Edition this year. The launch is planned for late spring.
What Is Minecraft Education Edition?
Minecraft: Education Edition is a version of the popular game Minecraft. It is built especially for classroom use. The game lets students build and explore in a block world. Teachers can use it to teach many subjects. Science, math, history, art and even coding can be taught with the game.
The first version of MinecraftEdu was created in 2011 by Joel Levin. After Microsoft bought the company, the game was renamed Minecraft: Education Edition. Existing MinecraftEdu users will get the new edition for free for one year.
How Microsoft Brought It to Schools
Microsoft announced the new edition in January 2016. News sites like BBC, HT Tech and K‑12 Dive reported the launch plan. Microsoft also promised a community site for teachers. The site will let teachers share ideas and lessons.
In October 2019, Microsoft set up Minecraft Learning Centres across Wales. These centres help schools learn how to use the game. In November 2018, Microsoft added a new tool called Code Builder. Code Builder lets students write real code inside the game. The same update also launched a new Hour of Code program.
In May 2024, EdTech Magazine wrote that Minecraft Education Edition can help younger students start in esports. The game can be used for friendly competitions that teach teamwork and strategy.
Key Features for Teachers and Students
- Classroom Mode – Teachers can control the world and keep students safe.
- Lesson Library – Ready‑made lessons for science, math, language arts and more.
- Code Builder – Students can learn coding with block‑based or text‑based languages.
- Hour of Code – A one‑hour activity that introduces basic programming concepts.
- Collaboration Tools – Chat, voice and shared whiteboards help students work together.
All of these tools are free for the first year for old MinecraftEdu users. New schools can sign up through the official Minecraft site.
How Schools Can Get Started
1. Check Eligibility – If your school already used MinecraftEdu, you can claim a free year.
2. Visit the Official Site – Go to education.minecraft.net and click “Get Started”.
3. Create a Teacher Account – You will need a school email address.
4. Join the Community – The Minecraft education community lets you ask questions and share lessons.
5. Try a Sample Lesson – The site offers a simple science lesson about water cycles. Follow the steps and see how students react.
6. Plan a Classroom Session – Use Classroom Mode to set up a safe world. Invite students and start building.
7. Explore Coding – Turn on Code Builder and let students write simple commands.
8. Track Progress – Teachers can see which students completed tasks and give feedback.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Minecraft Education Edition free?
It is free for one year for anyone who already used MinecraftEdu. New schools can get a trial or pay for a license after the trial ends.
What age groups can use it?
The game works well for ages 6 to 18. Teachers can adjust the difficulty of lessons for younger or older students.
Do I need special hardware?
Only a computer or tablet that can run Minecraft. Most school computers meet the requirements.
Can I use it for subjects other than coding?
Yes. There are lessons for science, math, history, language arts and art. Teachers can also create their own worlds.
Conclusion
Minecraft: Education Edition brings a fun, creative world into the classroom. Microsoft’s purchase of MinecraftEdu and the new tools like Code Builder make it easier for teachers to teach many subjects. The free‑year offer helps schools try it without risk. With community support, lesson libraries and easy‑to‑use features, Minecraft Education Edition can become a regular part of school learning.