An Evaluation of a Minecraft Education Intervention for Improving Spatial Thinking in Primary School Children (Poster 29)

• In Event: Saturday Poster Session 3:05 pm
  In Poster Session: Literacy and Mathematics Instruction

Abstract

Minecraft Education (ME) offers rich opportunities for developing students’ spatial thinking while supporting curricular content. This study evaluates the effectiveness of a 6-week ME curriculum-based intervention designed to improve spatial thinking. The study used a two-level cluster RCT design. 5th and 6th classes (N = 32) were randomly allocated to the intervention or control group. Assessments of spatial thinking and creativity were completed at pre-test, post-test and 6-week follow-up. The intervention group demonstrated no improvements in study outcomes. However, subgroup analyses indicated that 5th class students improved their global spatial skills from pre-test to post-test, while 6th class did not. This study highlights the importance of individual differences and tailoring interventions when evaluating the effectiveness of ME.

Authors

• Eadaoin Slattery, Technological University of the Shannon Midwest

• Deirdre Butler, Dublin City University

• Kevin G. Marshall, Microsoft Ireland

• Michael Barrett, Microsoft

• Neeve Hyland, Microsoft

• Michael O'Leary, Dublin City University

• Laura McAvinue, University College Dublin