Microsoft launching Minecraft program for teachers

Microsoft is readying a new online portal for educators to implement hit sandbox game Minecraft as a classroom resource.

Engadget reports that the website is up but not fully running yet. The trailer below gives a good impression of what the company and developer Mojang have in mind.

Minecraft in education is students visiting an ancient civilization and creating a setting for a story,” the announcement video description reads.

It is exploring math concepts using Minecraft blocks. It is practicing collaboration, problem solving, digital citizenship and leadership skills while designing experiments and demonstrating mastery. Minecraft in education is teachers inspired by their students to explore and create, and students motivated to learn.”

Microsoft acquired Mojang and its Minecraft IP for $2.5bn last September. The game’s PC edition surpassed 20m sales earlier this week.