It is a free science-related e-sports competition that challenges participants ages 8-18 to solve agricultural biotechnology tasks in a fun virtual environment while improving their STEM and computer skills.
U.S. embassies and consulates around the world are promoting this unique challenge in one of the most popular video games out there, organized by the North America Scholastic Esports Federation (NASEF) especially for the State Department. "We want kids and youth to be able to form teams at their schools and join this exciting event that combines the popular video game Minecraft with a quest for innovative technologies in the agricultural sector. It is a different way to promote the use of science and technology (STEM), English language learning, and the development of soft skills such as teamwork, problem solving, and critical thinking, which is one of the priorities of our Embassy," said Jacqueline Mourot, Counselor for Public Affairs at the U.S. Embassy in Uruguay.
The event will run from February 17 to May 19, 2021. Registration opened in early February with pre-season events for participants to practice and prepare for the competition proper, which will begin on March 31, 2021.
Students must create farming systems that mimic real-world production, trade and environmental conditions. Teams will compete against each other in five different biomes presented in the customized world of NASEF Farmcraft™. In addition, they will learn from scientists in the virtual lab how to leverage available technology and tools while dealing with problems such as pests and drought. Winners will be selected based on quantifiable metrics (yield, environmental effects) within the contest biomes.
"Students love building in Minecraft, and this interactive project-based learning (PBL) opportunity will help them understand the realities of modern agriculture as they play and create with their teams." In addition to the Minecraft challenges, students will increase their understanding of agricultural approaches and technologies through live online events with agriculture and technology professionals," said Erik Leitner, a U.S. STEM teacher who worked with NASEF to build the challenges.
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