Microsoft is creating a new version of Minecraft that’s being purpose-built for use in schools.
Minecraft: Education Edition will expand upon classroom-oriented modMinecraftEdu (which Microsoft has purchased), and will be available as a free trial this coming winter.
All existing MinecraftEdu customers will get the first year of free of charge, and from there will need to sign up for a subscription.
Education Edition will offer an expanded set of features to empower educators to foster deeper student engagement and collaboration, said Microsoft.
“It’s going to be a collaborative thing,” said Mojang’s Owen Hill.
“Development of Minecraft: Education Edition will be shaped by a community of educators thanks to education.minecraft.net.
“The site will host lesson plans and give Minecraft: Education Edition users somewhere to discuss ideas and provide feedback,” he added.
“We know teachers can be a rowdy bunch, so we’re looking into the best ways to moderate the forums as I type. Wish us luck.”