Microsoft is set to release a new version of Minecraft that would enable teachers to utilize the popular sandbox video game for students' learning. The tech company announced on Thursday that the new version called "Minecraft: Education Edition" will be launched in beta format beginning in May.
Tech Crunch reports that Microsoft will be introducing the beta program of "Minecraft: Education Edition" to over 100 schools from 30 countries next month. These schools will be helping the tech company in testing the new version of the video game and giving comprehensive feedback so that the software could be improved before its wider rollout in June.
After the beta-format launch of "Minecraft: Education Edition," Microsoft said that an "early access" program of the video game will become available in June with 11 language options. During this time, teachers can download "Minecraft: Education Edition" for free in exchange of cooperating with the tech company in giving detailed feedback. The program will be released in 41 countries and will last all the way through the summer.
Over 30 countries will participate in the @PlayCraftLearn beta #TheMoreYouKnow #MinecraftEdu https://t.co/tVQLVxyyqZ pic.twitter.com/kngfQN8cT5
— Minecraft Education (@PlayCraftLearn) April 15, 2016
Microsoft said that the "early access" program of "Minecraft: Education Edition" would allow them to collaborate with teachers in building out lesson plans, creating reusable projects and sharing learning activity ideas. After the program, the final edition of the video game could be purchased via direct and volume licensing channels.
To run "Minecraft: Education Edition," Microsoft said in a statement that teachers need to upgrade their school computers to Windows 10 or OS X El Capitan. The tech company also advised teachers to sign up at "Office 365 Education" for free using their school or district emails.
Marie Lindsay, principal of St. Mary's College in Northern Ireland, shared that Minecraft would give educators an opportunity to engage more fully with students. "I'm excited to embrace this so our young people will be better prepared for the world that awaits them," she stated.
Early access to Minecraft: Education Edition, almost here! #MinecraftEdu #Minecraft #EdTech https://t.co/lHQEo5da2h pic.twitter.com/sRZlHj535f
— Minecraft Education (@PlayCraftLearn) April 14, 2016
The move to invest with "Minecraft: Education Edition" came after Microsoft discovered that the video game has been already used by many schools in more than 40 countries as part of their curriculum. The tech company initially announced the investment expansion in January.
