Exploring the Potential of the Minecraft Game as a Tool for Personality Development and Preparation for an Engineering Career
摘要
In this study, we present an innovative educational approach and methodological development that uses the Minecraft video game to expand the technical knowledge of young learners, shape their attitudes and introduce them to the specifics of the engineering profession. This method was applied for three children’s university summer camps, aiming to enhance the environmental awareness, safety consciousness, and technological interest of young generations. Participants aged 9–17 engaged in game-based learning in a virtual environment, interacting with various technical fields such as sustainable energy sources, the security of buildings and information security. The application of Minecraft contributed to the students’ personality development as solving the tasks required creativity, logical thinking, spatial awareness, cooperation and communication. During the camp, students participated in self-awareness sessions and career orientation activities to familiarize themselves with university life and the specifics of the engineering profession. Quantitative and qualitative research methods were used to examine students’ work interests, future outlook and career plans. We found that most students are attracted to methodical and innovative work activities and would gladly choose engineering as a career. The methodological innovations presented can also be useful for other technical higher education institutions as the Minecraft game not only aids in mastering technical topics but can also be beneficial in the career orientation of young learners.