Engineering Through Minecraft Redstone (5-Class Series)
Learn key and essential elements of multi-discipline engineering through the fun and intricate world of Redstone! (Minecraft Java Edition for Mac and PC, Bedrock Edition not compatible)
Watch the class trailer: bit.ly/3TnXxky
Ben Kraft
Average rating:
4.8
Number of reviews:(46)
What's included
5 live meetings
6 hrs 15 mins in-class hoursHomework
1 hour per week. Homework is optional, learners may design builds that integrate themes covered in class outside of course time.Class Experience
Intermediate Level
This class will help your child learn some of the basic concepts behind Minecraft’s native circuitry engine: Redstone. Its easy-to-use and visual aspects make it a perfect learning tool to help your child understand and enjoy what engineering is all about. Included concepts in this course cover basic circuitry, timing, logic gates, as well as many other lessons on how in-game components can help your child’s creativity grow within Minecraft and outside the classroom. This class will take place in a 5-lesson format. Each day, students will join a secure online Minecraft server and learn and discuss specific concepts and components, and then use that knowledge in open-ended but guided exercises to solidify ideas and be creative in the process. Minecraft Java Edition usernames will be privately shared with the teacher in order to allow the student to join the online server and deleted immediately after the class has finished. One of the best things about this class is that your child can use these lessons anytime they want on their own. At the end of the 5-class week, your child’s projects will be compiled together and they can see for themselves how much they’ve grown. The only requirement for this class is access to Minecraft Java edition found on Mac / PCs. Unfortunately, Minecraft Bedrock Edition (Found on phones, tablets, or any consoles) is not compatible with the host learning server.
Learning Goals
Students will learn valuable engineering and problem-solving skills that apply to many disciplines outside of Minecraft. From circuit-building to themes of programming, students take part in lessons they can enjoy and continue exploring through play.
Syllabus
5 Lessons
over 1 WeekLesson 1:
Redstone Wiring, Repeaters, and Music!
Students will learn the basics of Redstone wiring, how it works, and what can be done with it, as well as basic timing for Redstone using repeaters. Using block-powering, students will take part in an activity to create a brief song using Redstone dust, repeaters, and note blocks. 75 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Logic Gates, Pistons, and Signal Strength!
Students will learn about Redstone logic gates, moving blocks with pistons, as well as a specific Redstone component, comparators, which can interact with containers as well as achieve simple subtractions/comparisons. Using these concepts, students will create systems that deal with automating container management. 75 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Minecarts, Rails, and Slime Blocks!
Students will learn about making minecarts rail systems and roller coasters. Using slime blocks and powering, students will create their own miniature roller coasters using Redstone in wacky ways. 75 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Advanced Powering, Timing, and Quasi-Connectivity!
Students will learn about advanced powering techniques. These include concepts such as quasi-connectivity, block updates, as well as signal durations. Students will create Redstone doors or gates that will open or close on command. 75 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Parental Guidance
Minecraft Java Edition requires a Microsoft account to function. This also means that in order to join the learning server, this Microsoft account has to have multiplayer enabled. If you are unsure of how to do this, you will need to:
1. Open your web browser and navigate to the official Xbox website at https://account.xbox.com/Settings. Sign in using your credentials.
2. Now, click on the tab of Xbox One/Windows 10 Online Safety. Make sure that the option of "You can join multiplayer games" is Allowed.
Learners will need to share their Minecraft username with the class, as it permits them to join the learning server. These usernames cannot be used to access any information about the learners, nor contact them in any way.
Pre-Requisites
Learners should have experience building in Minecraft Java Edition, and know what redstone is!
Supply List
All a student will need is Minecraft Java edition, the Outschool classroom, an updated version of Zoom, and a wifi connection. They will also need to share their Minecraft username with the class, as it permits them to join the learning server. These usernames cannot be used to access any information about the learners, nor contact them in any way.
Not an official Minecraft product. Not approved or associated with Mojang.
Teacher expertise and credentials
Bachelor's Degree in Science from Tufts University School of Engineering
I am a mechanical engineer from Tufts University and have taught education through video games for close to five years. I have been a STEM specialist at MGH Aspire where I developed a science and engineering curriculum for children ages 7-12 on the autism spectrum to engage interest, exploration, and problem-solving. I have also been playing Minecraft for over ten years, and I pride myself on being able to offer a more comprehensive overview of redstone than most other similar courses on the platform, yet I have found ways to keep lessons simplified and understandable.Reviews
Live Group Course
$60
for 5 classes5x per week, 1 week
75 min
Completed by 178 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 10-15
5-12 learners per class
