Public Citizens for Children and Youth (PCCY) and the Philadelphia Foundation are currently offering an online summer camp where low-income middle and high schoolers can learn to build, code, engineer, explore and create in Minecraft with other kids from Philadelphia.
The camp is a chance for kids to learn the physics and engineering behind building amusement park rides, build 3D adventure games or expand upon a mega game world in Minecraft. The online camp experience gives kids a chance to construct, learn, explore coding and STEM concepts.
The program offers three camp options. The first, which requires previous Minecraft experience, helps kids advance their Minecraft proficiency and develop leadership and social skills by carrying out unique missions and building incredible game worlds with a group of fellow campers. Each team will design and build a large-scale Minecraft Missions project.
The second option, which requires no previous experience, focuses on amusement parks and gives kids the opportunity to learn about science and engineering. By exploring the physics of roller coasters, campers will build and test physical and virtual roller coaster models using a variety of computer programs, including Minecraft. The camp day, which is divided into three periods, includes two periods of learning the science and engineering of roller coasters and one period of working with Minecraft.
The final option is Minecraft Extreme, a camp designed for Minecraft lovers who want to take their skills to the next level. The program will focus on adventure design, Redstone and offer an introduction to programming using Minecraft Education’s built-in code editor. Campers can improve their problem-solving skills and build complex and large-scale adventures and mini-games. Working in teams, participants can also learn how to set up and administer Minecraft Education servers for multiplayer adventures.
The camps, which are valued at more than $200, are now being offered $25. The online camp runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday, and includes a lunch break. Campers will need an iPad, laptop with Windows 7, 8 or 10, Mac OS or Chromebook. Devices must also have a camera/webcam, a microphone and speakers, and Internet access.
Families that qualify for free or reduced lunch programs can sign up for just $25 a week. PCCY is offering over 200 grants for families in need. New camps begin every Monday and run through September 4. For more information, visit the website here.
Source: PCCY