Northern Ireland

CCEA scoops two learning technologies awards

The resource encourages exploration of the Viking history and problem solving
The resource encourages exploration of the Viking history and problem solving The resource encourages exploration of the Viking history and problem solving

A GAME-based education tool has won high praise in a competition that celebrates the best in learning technologies across the world.

The Council for Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (CCEA) took home two Learning Technology awards for its Stem in Minecraft resource.

It secured gold in both the Best learning game (UK) and Excellence in the design of learning content – public and non-profit sector - categories.

The resource provides a range of game based active learning opportunities, making connections both within and beyond for the area of learning for the school curriculum The World Around Us.

Pupils become a Viking protagonist, facing a series of choices and challenges on a journey to mastery. To promote a blended approach there are several stem enquiries to connect science and technology to a topic traditionally viewed as being relevant to history only.

It also enables teachers to support pupils infusing digital skills alongside vital thinking skills such as problem solving, creativity, strategic leadership and innovation.

Judges said the number of activities and evidential actions made it a clear winner.

"A great solution utilising familiar existing technology. It brought value and rigorous pedagogy to a resource like Minecraft," they said.

"The judges applaud the ambition to develop pupils' higher-order thinking skills. The structured environment for exploration and discovery enabled blissful productivity."

CCEA Chief Executive Justin Edwards said he was delighted to receive such recognition.

"We have taken the Minecraft computer game and introduced content that encourages exploration of the Viking history and problem solving. This award is recognition of the quality and innovation in the work. It is part of a wide range of work we continue to do in digital skills," he said.

:: The free resource is available to all primary schools at www.nicurriculum.org.uk/STEMWorks/minecraft.