During the week of June 13, the Cherokee Public Library and Western Iowa Tech Community College teamed up for a four-day Minecraft Camp for kids in grades six, seven, and eight. Students enrolled in Camp READ (Redstone, Engineering, and Design) and had the opportunity to not only play a popular video game, but also integrate real-world applications in technology, design, problem solving and presentation skills.

Participants spent their week at the WITCC under the tutelage of Library Director Tyler Hahn. Hahn, along with WITCC staff and guest presenters such as Sanford Museum educator Kerisa Pingel. Pingel gave the students a session on rocks and minerals, exploring more than two dozen samples with the group. She explained their origins and various geological tests that experts rely on to determine the identity, strength and other characteristics of a rock or mineral. “I had never played Minecraft before,” she laughed. “I spent a lot of time thinking about what minerals might be represented in the game and deciding which ones to show,” Pingel continued. For example, in Minecraft coal is used for smelting, which is similar to its real purpose. Lapis lazuli in Minecraft is used for magic and sorcery, reflecting the stone’s long history linked to magic and mysticism. Other minerals, such as redstone, were more difficult to identify.

The Minecraft camp was split into multiple segments (meaning the kids weren’t all day hooked up to the computer). They did a lot of hands-on activities and had a lot of talks. Their time in the game reflected the lessons of the day and served as a vehicle to explore nearly two dozen different careers. Many of these careers are linked to several WITCC programs including nursing, CNA, welding, paramedic/ambulance services, graphic design and coaching. WITCC nursing instructor Connie Nelson was on hand to explore CNA professional skills. Students learned to record vital signs such as height, weight, blood pressure, temperature, and oxygen saturation. The students also visited an ambulance and spoke via Zoom with a professional graphic designer, which was incredibly exciting for them. “I finally know what I want to do is called!” exclaimed an enthusiastic student.

Hahn is a highly respected educator in the world of esports. A former member of NASEF (North America Scholastic Esports Federation) and one of Iowa’s STEM Gems, he is a strong advocate for connected learning and college career outreach services using video games as a medium for reach college students. Cherokee Campus and North Service Area Director Dr. Darla Struck couldn’t talk enough about Hahn and Camp Minecraft. “We’re lucky to have Tyler. He’s so knowledgeable and the kids really enjoy learning from him. Struck also confirmed that they would be offering this type of camp again. “It’s really important and the kids learn so much. “