In an era of digital learning, harnessing the power of interactive platforms is important for engaging students and promoting cultural understanding. Rupertsland Institute (RLI) recognizes this need and together with Logics Academy are developing a fully featured Minecraft Education learning experience that inspires Métis students to connect with their culture and language.
Minecraft Education Edition allows students to build, explore, and learn through play. With its block-based world, students can construct structures, simulate historical scenarios, and engage in problem-solving activities.
“Michif Minecraft” offers a rich and engaging opportunity for students to learn Michif, the distinct Indigenous language of the Métis Nation, through an exploration of Métis culture and history. One of its key features is the collaborative construction of a virtual Métis community within the game. Students will experience Métis architecture, layout, and cultural elements, then build cabins and communal spaces. The world will be populated with dozens of non-player characters (NPCs) representing important Métis community members. Additionally, the experience includes historical activities that encourage problem-solving, critical thinking, and knowledge of Métis traditions. Students will explore virtual landscapes to find hidden Métis cultural items, solve riddles, and collaborate with others. Language learning is also integrated, with in-game signs displaying Michif vocabulary and interactive dialogues between NPCs in the Métis language. Finally, students will interact with significant Métis landmarks, such as the Red River Settlement or fur trading posts, paying attention to detail and providing educational information boards within the game. “Michif Minecraft” will foster an immersive and educational exploration of Métis language, culture, and heritage
In addition to the world development, Logics will create learning resources with build tasks and standards-aligned assessment structure for teachers. They will also train the Education team at RLI and plan for some further training with schools upon launch on Métis Week 2024.
“Logics is honored to collaborate with Rupertsland Institute on this very important initiative. Their innovative use of Minecraft Education to immerse students in Métis culture and the Michif language offers a unique and engaging learning experience that we are excited to explore together.“
Michelle Martin, Director of Partnerships, Logics Academy
“Rupertsland Institute is thrilled to partner with Logics Academy on the ‘Michif Minecraft’ project. We are excited to invite students across the country to join us in a virtual Métis Crossing world to learn and celebrate Michif while experiencing Métis fur trading and bison hunt histories. Maarsii thank you to our Métis Knowledge and Language Holders, the Métis Crossing team, and to the Logics team for all their dedicated support!”
Kimmy Fraser-Airhart,Métis Education Manager, Métis Education, Rupertsland Institute
About Rupertsland Institute
Established in 2010 as an affiliate of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government (Métis Nation of Alberta), the Rupertsland Institute (RLI) Métis Centre for Excellence was incorporated and assigned RLI with a mandate in education, training and research. RLI envisions education in Alberta to include an understanding of Métis foundational knowledge, Métis content and Métis resources for ALL learners and educators to access in an authentic, purposeful way. https://www.rupertsland.org/teaching-learning/
About Logics Academy
Logics Academy is a leader in providing K-12 STEM, robotics and coding solutions and in developing rich, comprehensive learning experiences for students and educators across North America. Learn more about Logics Academy by visiting logicsacademy.com and follow us on social media @logicsacademy
For more information, please contact:
120 East Beaver Creek Rd Suite 200, Richmond Hill, ON L4B 4V1