Game On: Transforming STEM Education with Minecraft Challenges
Seattle Convention Center - 619
Step into a world where learning meets adventure in our immersive workshop on using Minecraft Education for STEM. Discover the power of game-based learning and how it can revolutionize your classroom. This session will provide you with strategies to integrate Minecraft across various subjects, including STEM and special education.
We'll dive into practical applications, from classroom competitions to global building challenges, engaging students of all ages in collaborative and creative problem-solving. Participants will gain insights into organizing and managing these competitions, fostering a spirit of teamwork and innovation. Our hands-on activities will showcase best practices and provide you with the tools to inspire your students through Minecraft.
Thanks to the generous support of the Washington Education Association, all participants will be able to use Minecraft Education accounts during the workshop if they do not already have access, ensuring an interactive and engaging experience.
A laptop, including Chromebooks but preferably something more powerful either Mac or Windows, with Minecraft Education installed will make the experience much better for all participants.
Note: Be sure your electronic device has a fully charged battery as only limited power sources will be available.
BYOD Workshop (1 hour 50 Minute)
Gaming, Special Education, STEM/STEAM, Other
All Audiences
All levels
All Grade Levels
Presented by
6th Grade STEM Teacher
Chimacum Elementary School
Alfonso (Al) Gonzalez is a 6th-grade STEM teacher at Chimacum Elementary School with 33 years of experience. Honored as the 2021 NCCE Outstanding Educator of the Year and a 2022 EPA Presidential Innovation Award recipient, Al integrates cutting-edge technology and environmental education into his dynamic 1:1 classroom. Over his career, he has secured 27 grants, including 24 consecutive years of funding, to enhance STEM, robotics, and environmental science curricula. Known for his innovative and practical strategies, Al inspires both students and educators to reimagine what’s possible in teaching and learning. https://about.me/alfonso_gonzalez/
Education Consultant
Level Up Education
With over 25 years in education, Tammie Schrader is a passionate advocate for innovative teaching and equity. She taught math, science, and STEM to middle school students before becoming Regional Science and Computer Science Coordinator, delivering professional development across 59 districts. She champions racial equity. An adjunct professor, she developed training on UDL, AI, and game-based learning. Currently an AI Guideline Specialist, she advances AI education statewide. She has presented at national conferences and received awards for her commitment to STEM and equity. Tammie is pursuing a PhD in Educational Leadership, fostering inclusive, engaging learning environments.Tammie Schrader is a science/computer science coordinator at Northeast Washington ESD 10. She serves 59 public schools in their science and computer science implementation. Tammie was a science teacher at Cheney Middle School, for 15 years. She taught Life Science as well as Computer Programming, Gaming Programming, Robotics as well as coaching the Science Olympiad Team, Robotics Club, SeaPerch Team as well as Future Business Leaders of America at her middle school. Tammie has her B.A. in Education and B.S. in Biology. She earned M.A. in Education and Teaching At Risk Students.
