Beginner Coding Class With Minecraft: Level 1 - The Basics of Programming
In this class, students will learn the basics of programming within Minecraft! Students will learn PDL Code, a language created by our company to work seamlessly with Minecraft and introduce the basics of coding. (#builder)
Playful Digital Learning
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:(573)
What's included
5 live meetings
7 hrs 30 mins in-class hoursClass Experience
For this class, only Minecraft Java Edition (not the Bedrock edition) for PC or Mac is supported. It is not compatible with iPads, tablets, phones, Chromebook, or game consoles. Students must purchase the Java Edition of Minecraft for their personal computers; tablets, Chromebook or consoles will not suffice. In this class, students will learn the basics of programming within Minecraft! Students will learn PDL Code, a language created by our company to work seamlessly with Minecraft and introduce the basics of coding. Using core elements from other popular languages such as Java or C++, PDL Code has its own console where students program outside of Minecraft to make things happen on our very own secure server. They can affect the game world or make their character move just by using code. For example, when students place a block, they can spawn 5 cows. Or, when they begin sneaking, their character will do a dance. Students can even create a code that will build a house for them completely hands-free! Students are expected to understand the basics of using a computer, including switching between windows and using a mouse. It is also intended for intermediate Minecraft players; they should at least know the basic controls and concepts. However, no programming knowledge is required! This course will introduce the basics completely from scratch, such as variables, loops, and conditionals. In addition to the basics of programming, students in this course will: - Use technology to accomplish goals - Learn to work in group settings - Accomplish goals using programming concepts - Problem-solve when bugs arise and learn to handle challenges graciously - Practice their math and logic skills - Develop an engineering mindset Day 1. Set up / Unit Initializer - Understand how to navigate the PDL Code console and create their very first unit of code! Day 2. Events / Repeat / Delay - Use Events to make actions occur multiple times and repeat or delay certain pieces of code Day 3. Movement / Variables - Learn variables, an essential piece of programming, and how to move your character around the world Day 4. Conditionals - Using if/then statements to make things happen under specific conditions Day 5. Review Game - Show what you know! Work together to practice all the previous concepts to make various units of code! The teacher will wait up to 15 minutes for students to arrive. If students do not show up within that time and haven’t provided advance notice, the session will not be rescheduled.
Other Details
Parental Guidance
Students will receive information for our own private Minecraft server. Only students from the class will be able to access it to ensure safety. Nonetheless, please do not share the server information with others. Students should have their own Minecraft Java Edition account and will need to provide the teachers with their username prior to the class start so we can give them permission to access it. Other Minecraft versions like console editions and pocket editions for mobile devices will not work for this course.
Parents will also be required to create an account on our secure website. This information can only be accessed by Playful Digital Learning staff. Information taken during account creation, such as e-mail and real name, are only used to identify students and are optional.
PDL Class Policy
Please verify that your student understands our policy. We want our students to treat us and each other with respect, and we want to make sure everyone has an enjoyable class time.
When in a Playful Digital Learning class, please respect your instructor and other students.
- Follow the teacher’s instructions
- Do not destroy buildings of other students
- Be polite and kind when suggesting or criticizing ideas
- Allow other students to speak
If the class is frequently interrupted or the student is misbehaving:
1. First time: Verbal or written warning
2. Second time: Put the student in a breakout room to speak with an instructor one on one
3. Third time: Kicked or temporarily banned from the Minecraft server or document until the teacher deems the behavior is corrected
Any warnings will be communicated to the student’s parent/guardian.
Please note that the Minecraft server may also be temporarily turned off while students are doing other tasks (such as programming or discussing).
Supply List
Students will need to have a computer capable of running Minecraft and an internet browser at the same time without difficulties. Students must also have their own Minecraft Java account (NOT Minecraft Bedrock edition, e.g. on a tablet or phone). They also need a mouse (not a trackpad), a camera, and a microphone for communication.
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Not an official Minecraft product. Not approved or associated with Mojang.
Joined August, 2020
4.9
573reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
Playful Digital Learning (PDL) consists of people with a passion for teaching, gaming, and technology. We strive to inspire creativity, model reflection, and empower students to learn through play. Our teachers often have experience teaching both in person and online.
The founder of Playful Digital Learning, Yoonhee Lee, has done extensive research on game-based literacy learning. She has a variety of teaching experience in K-12 and adult contexts in Korea and the US. She is currently teaching pre-service teachers in Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College at Arizona State University. Her research topic is focusing on gaming and learning.
Lead Teacher, Ashtyn Dial, graduated from Arizona State University with a Master's in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. She has worked with children for several years and has taught many subjects including game development, language, writing, music, and more. She is familiar with several programming languages and game engines, including Java, GameMaker Studio 2, and Unity.
Reviews
Live Group Class
$179
for 5 classes5x per week, 1 week
90 min
Completed by 94 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 8-13
2-8 learners per class
