Game-Based Learning Platform Using Minecraft: Reconstructing the National Taiwan Science Education Center as a Game Theme

This paper presents the design and implementation of a game-based learning platform using Minecraft, themed around the reconstruction of the National Taiwan Science Education Center. Our study aims to enhance learning motivation, scientific literacy, and hands-on problem-solving skills among junior and senior high school students. The platform integrates scientific content with the creative and interactive mechanics of Minecraft, addressing the lack of interactivity and engagement often found in traditional classroom instruction. Five major game zones are designed based on the five natural elements, including metal, wood, water, fire, and earth, which are aligned with the core disciplines of physics, chemistry, biology, earth science, and mathematics. Learners take on the role of rebuilding a ruined science museum, while completing missions that involve scientific exploration such as light propagation, crustal movement, DNA repair, periodic elements, and gravitational acceleration. Through narrative-based challenges and exploration, students engage in exploratory and inquiry-based learning by applying knowledge in a virtual environment that fosters curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. The findings indicate that the proposed platform effectively enhances intrinsic motivation and deepens conceptual understanding of scientific principles. Consequently, it demonstrates the educational potential of game-based learning to promote meaningful engagement and bridge the gap between traditional instruction and interactive digital learning environments.