Team Atwood is the winner of the Move Mining competition. Eleven-year-old Corban Atwood and his brother, 8-year-old Jayce, pitched their winning concept before a panel of
industry leaders at the SME Annual Conference & Expo on Feb. 21, 2017 in the Colorado Convention Center. Their idea was supported by their father, Garrett Atwood, a 13-year mining professional.
Team Atwood’s concept involves leveraging the wildly popular video game, Minecraft, to increase young students’ understanding of the necessity and benefits of mining. Their refined version of the game would include exploration, milling and refining, energy sourcing, realistic geology and environmental stewardship components.
The game-based learning tool incorporates STEM skills and could be played by teams of students in simultaneous competition for goals including the value of ore mined, level of refined material, number and extent of structures and machines built, reclamation activity and environmental impact, and the health and safety of the game pieces.
By taking the video game to a young audience, the realities and benefits of mining are taught in a fun and engaging way that reinforces positive aspects of the mining and minerals industries, and helps the students gain insight into industry practices.
View a recording of the competition and finale on SME Facebook.