Harnessing Technology to Enhance Employability, Inclusivity and Authentic Assessment

Pin Shen Teh is a Senior Lecturer in Operations, Technology, Events and Hospitality Management. His research explores practical applications of machine learning and also the use of the metaverse in education to enhance engagement and academic performance.

Introduction 

Our Department of Operations, Technology, Events and Hospitality Management within our university’s Business School has made significant strides in addressing challenges that impact student employability and inclusivity through innovative technological solutions. By leveraging digital education transformation strategies, in particular education through the digital metaverse, we have redefined how technology enhances learning experiences, particularly in improving employability, accessibility, diversity, and authentic assessment. This nomination highlights our exemplary use of digital technology to address critical gaps and foster employability. 

Identified Challenges and Strategic Objectives 

Our transformative journey began with recognising the following challenges: 

1. BAME Award Gap: Persistent disparities in attainment and recognition among BAME students revealed potential systemic barriers. 

2. Underrepresentation of Women in STEM: Women constitute only 15% of our STEM cohort, reflecting a significant imbalance in diversity. 

3. Non-Tech Background Dominance: Approximately 90% of students come from non-technical backgrounds, necessitating targeted interventions to build technical skills. 

4. Non-Authentic Assessments: Traditional assessments lacked real-world applicability, limiting students’ ability to demonstrate practical skills. 

5. Lack of a Sense of Community: The absence of a cohesive learning community hindered student engagement and satisfaction. 

Our Objective: Develop and implement digital education strategies to bridge these gaps by using technology to foster employability, inclusivity, and engagement while delivering authentic, real-world learning experiences. 

Innovative Solution: Minecraft Education Edition 

We identified Microsoft Minecraft Education Edition as a transformative tool that seamlessly integrates into our teaching and learning strategies. Our decision was driven by several compelling factors: 

1. Global Popularity: As the world’s top-selling video game, Minecraft’s widespread appeal resonates with students globally, promoting inclusivity and engagement. 

2. Bridging Knowledge Gaps: Minecraft’s interactive environment connects students’ existing skills and interests to their academic pursuits, fostering logical and critical thinking skills vital for employability. 

3. Accessibility: With minimal requirements—an Office 365 account and compatibility across operating systems—Minecraft is affordable and easily accessible. 

4. Instructor Empowerment: Microsoft’s complimentary instructor training ensures our faculty and students collaborate effectively, creating tailored content for a dynamic learning experience. 

Implementation Across Programmes 

Minecraft has been integrated into a range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and executive education programmes, benefiting students aged 18 to 60. Key programmes include: 

• BSc (Hons) Business Technology 

• BSc (Hons) International Hospitality Business Management 

• Digital and Technology Solutions Degree Apprenticeship 

• MSc Business Analytics 

• Master of Business Administration 

• Master of Sport Directorship 

Beyond our institution, we have extended Minecraft’s impact to the broader community and internationally: 

1. School Outreach: Over the past three years, we have used Minecraft in outreach initiatives to teach coding to school students, particularly targeting females, to address the gender imbalance in STEM fields. 

2. Cultural Collaboration: During summer 2023, our students partnered with Factory International to recreate a digital twin of the Aviva Studio within Minecraft’s metaverse. This collaboration provided students with leadership, project management, and communication experience. 

3. International Partnerships: In 2022, we worked with Austin Heights International Schools in Malaysia to integrate Minecraft into their curriculum, making the school a global leader in innovative teaching practices. 

Employability Benefits 

Our approach enhances employability in the following ways: 

• Skill Development: Students develop logical reasoning, problem-solving, and leadership skills through collaborative and project-based learning. 

• Industry Alignment: Engaging students with technology mirrors industry practices, ensuring graduates are job-ready. 

• Sustainable Practices: Digitising resources aligns with environmental goals, reducing costs and waste. 

• Gender and Diversity Initiatives: Encouraging female participation in technology strengthens workforce diversity and addresses industry skill shortages. 

Impact and Achievements 

The integration of Minecraft into our academic strategy has yielded measurable benefits for students, staff, and the wider community. Key impacts include: 

1. Enhanced Engagement and Attendance: The immersive and interactive nature of Minecraft has made learning more enjoyable, boosting student engagement and attendance. 

2. Authentic Assessment and Higher Passing Rates: Students apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts, leading to a deeper understanding of programming fundamentals and improved pass rates. 

3. Content Co-Creation and Personal Growth: Students actively co-create content within Minecraft, fostering ownership of their learning journey, enhancing community, and building personal development. 

4. Agile Teaching and Digital Materials: Minecraft’s digital platform enables agile teaching, reducing preparation time and allowing educators to focus on high-quality content delivery. 

5. Sustainability and Community Outreach: By digitising resources, Minecraft supports our sustainability goals while engaging communities, particularly encouraging females to pursue technology careers. 

6. Global Reach: Our support for international schools has expanded Minecraft’s influence, creating a worldwide network of learners and educators. 

7. Promoting Diversity and Inclusion: The Aviva Studio project exemplifies cultural accessibility, fostering inclusion in the digital arts and education. 

Future Scope 

Our success with Minecraft paves the way for further advancements: 

• Expanding its integration into additional subjects and disciplines. 

• Developing new, innovative teaching methodologies through gamification and metaverse technologies. 

• Sharing best practices with other educational institutions to amplify its impact on employability.