What started as a graduation April Fools’ joke has officially become a surreal reality for this year’s incoming students.
Instead of crowding the quad, they’ll be enjoying the Fall back-to-school festivities online – in Minecraft.
Minecraft is enjoyed by millions as a popular video game where users can build their worlds and interact with one another. This is why John Hopkins University thought it would be a perfect platform to allow their students to creatively collaborate during their remote learning semesters.
Students can lay down the foundation to their own virtual “campus” by choosing a “biome”, which is another word for landscape. Then different players can add roads, buildings, and other details that make up their university.
This new, alternative experience is free for all students to access and is another form of connection for those who miss engaging with their peers through dorms, libraries, and classes.
So how does this change the “college experience”?
We know what you’re thinking… “it’s not the same thing.” But many schools are currently figuring out how to “rebrand” their social interactions during these times. The “same thing” may be a thing of the past – at least this year.
Now onto the fun stuff….
To uphold the sacred pumpkin spice latte spirit, Hopkins will be hosting their annual Hoptoberfest in their Minecraft campus, with the hopes that it will draw out a large (virtual) crowd.
Another bonus is that there’s no need to make travel arrangements for Germany this year. (Hey, we’re just looking on the bright side here.)
For the holidays, oh what fun it will be during The Lighting of the Quads – a popular annual tradition at Hopkins that consists of light displays and firework shows – fully lit up in pixel form.
While many applaud the school on this clever idea to allow students to creatively form bonds with one another, some students are criticizing the school’s decision.
One undergrad commented that they felt like the school was essentially saying… “I know your first year of college, a time when you’re supposed to discover yourself and meet close friends, is canceled… but it’s OK, because here’s a Minecraft account!”
Ouch!
Will virtual campuses become trendy?
While schools can’t replace tailgating events and parties (remember those?), universities are trying to keep school spirit and morale high by still hosting online orientations and campus tours.
In July, Columbus State University was the first to hold its freshman orientation using Minecraft.
And Brown University tackled its accessibility issue by using Minecraft to simulate in-person tours for prospective students.
What do you think? Should traditions go virtual, or should we just wait?
As we adapt to continued remote learning and socializing, we’d love to hear your thoughts!
Comment below to let us know what you think about schools using Minecraft to keep students engaged. Is this a good idea? Or are there other solutions schools could be doing to help with this transition?