Coding with Minecraft (Redstone and Computer Science)

Minecraft is an amazing game with many features that are not only fun, but are also used for learning. Dive into this 6 week course and learn to program in no time. You'll be able to create functional programs on your own by the third session of this class!

Week 1:
Course Intro
Simple introduction to computer science and the origins of computer language and a tutorial to become more familiar with Minecraft.

Week 2:
Minecraft Mechanics: Redstone
Introduction to redstone and logic gates. Redstone operates like electric circuits and is an important element of Minecraft which can help you learn more about technology.

Week 3:
More Redstone and Intro to Computercraft:
Continuing where we left off the week before with redstone and mastering it. Introducing Computercraft, a 3rd party add-on to Minecraft which allows the use of coding in-game to automate task or just create interesting programs. We will have to download this, but we will do this together in the class. More info @ http://computercraftedu.com/

Week 4:
In Depth Coding
Furthering knowledge of Computercraft and learning the fundamentals of computer languages. We start with a simplified version of code using blocks instead of text to create functional programs in game.

Week 5:
Advanced Coding
Working with a computer language called Lua after gaining an understanding of block based code. This language is great for beginners just learning and is easily translatable to other languages.

Week 6:
Wrap-Up and Resources
This is the week we wrap up our course. I will give resources to help further learning outside of the class so that each student can have the tools to learn independently and thrive.


FAQ:
What prior knowledge is necessary to participate?
None! As long as you can use a mouse and keyboard you are more than welcome in my class.

What if I start to fall behind?
There is nothing wrong with that, everyone works at their own pace and especially when it comes to computers; the retention of information is difficult for some. I can accommodate and give extra support as needed.

What if the class is too easy for me?
For more intermediate students, I will challenge you further than someone who hasn't even played Minecraft before starting. If you are already programming in languages like python or javascript this class may be too easy for you, unless you want to learn how play Minecraft. This is a beginners class after all.

This is great, but what do I need to get started?
A computer with access to file manager, an internet browser, Minecraft, and an effective form of communication(video call, email, etc.). Aside from that, you're good to go!