Ireland-based education technology company Prodigy Learning and Minecraft Education have announced the launch of a new product, ‘AI Ready Skills,’ designed to teach and credential students in artificial intelligence (AI). The announcement was made at BETT UK in London, one of the world’s largest education technology events.
‘AI Ready Skills’ is the latest offering from the partnership between Prodigy Learning and Minecraft Education, which began last year. The collaboration previously released two successful products: ‘Coding in Minecraft,’ focusing on coding education, and ‘Cyber in Minecraft,’ addressing cybersecurity skills. This latest development builds on these achievements, merging Minecraft’s immersive gameplay with Prodigy Learning’s innovative curriculum to prepare students for the AI-driven future.
The Rising Demand for AI Skills
AI is reshaping global workforces, with demand for AI-related skills increasing rapidly. According to PwC’s 2024 Global AI Jobs Barometer report, job postings for AI roles are growing 3.5 times faster than the overall job market. Additionally, Microsoft and LinkedIn’s 2024 Work Trend Index report highlights that 71% of business leaders prefer hiring candidates with AI skills over those with more experience but no AI knowledge.
‘AI Ready Skills’ is designed to address this demand by engaging students through game-based learning within Minecraft Education. The curriculum comprises four key units: Understanding AI, Generative AI, Machine Learning, and Responsible AI. Upon completing the program, students can take the capstone credential exam, earning an ‘AI Ready Skills’ certificate and digital badge to demonstrate their foundational AI proficiency.
Empowering Educators and Students
Andrew Flood, CEO of Prodigy Learning, described the launch as a milestone in AI education. “Artificial intelligence is transforming the world at an accelerating pace. Our partnership with Minecraft Education enables educators to equip students with the skills they need to thrive in an AI-driven age,” he said. “By integrating AI education into Minecraft, we provide a unique, engaging, and practical learning environment to prepare tomorrow’s workforce.”
Allison Matthews, Head of Minecraft Education at Microsoft, echoed this sentiment. “We are dedicated to empowering educators and students with tools for the future. ‘AI Ready Skills’ not only makes learning fun and accessible but also equips students with essential AI knowledge to navigate an increasingly complex technological landscape.”
Global Reach and Future Opportunities
The introduction of ‘AI Ready Skills’ follows the widespread adoption of Prodigy Learning’s previous offerings. School systems in regions such as Alaska, North Carolina, Northern Ireland, and New South Wales have integrated ‘Coding in Minecraft’ and ‘Cyber in Minecraft’ into their curricula.
Now available for licensing through Microsoft and Prodigy Learning channels worldwide, ‘AI Ready Skills’ aims to expand access to AI education for young learners globally. By combining immersive gameplay with cutting-edge educational tools, Prodigy Learning and Minecraft Education hope to prepare students for success in an AI-dominated future.
For further details, visit aireadyskills.com.