Science Hunters: Engineering for Sustainable Societies launched in May 2023, to help children from under-represented backgrounds discover the many facets of engineering involved in sustainable development, and provide them with opportunities to apply their newfound knowledge by creating their own model sustainable solutions and communities in Minecraft.
Building on our previous experience and using our well-developed Science Hunters approach, we collaborated with engineers to design and develop 12 sustainable, ecological engineering design-based sessions, linking engineering and engineers to the Sustainable Development Goals and future sustainable societal solutions. These were delivered to schools and community settings, achieving a reach of more than 2500. This included setting up several new ‘Minecraft Clubs’ in disadvantaged areas of Bristol, which were very well-received; they have proved so popular that we are seeking further support to continue this provision.
All children targeted fell within at least one group under-represented in engineering, with a particular focus on engaging girls, children with Special Educational Needs, children from low family income background and areas with low progression to Higher Education, and Looked After Children. Twelve engineers, all female, participated in the project, gaining experience in and contributing to development of Minecraft-based engineering outreach activities. Session materials will be made available as legacy resources.
Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with children reporting that they enjoyed the sessions, learnt about engineering and engineers and wanted to learn more about engineering. Teachers responded enthusiastically to the project, citing the efficacy of Minecraft in engaging children, the need to engage them with the Sustainable Development Goals and positive impacts, both now and in their futures, on their understanding of engineers and engineering and the role they play in society.
For further information, please contact [email protected].
Suspension Bridge built by Alex Kiyani, Science Hunters participant 2019
