The Role of Minecraft in STEM Education: A Study on the Development of Motivation and Spatial Abilities

Abstract This study examines how integrating Minecraft into STEM education impacts seventh-grade students' STEM motivation and spatial abilities. The research was conducted with 46 students during the 2021–2022 academic year and employed an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design. Over an intervention period of approximately two months, weekly STEM activities were organized. Quantitative data were collected using a STEM motivation scale and a spatial ability test administered to experimental and control groups. Qualitative data were obtained through semi-structured interviews with students in the experimental group. The results indicate Minecraft-based STEM activities significantly enhanced students' STEM motivation and spatial abilities. These findings suggest that actively integrating digital games into STEM education can effectively increase students' interest in STEM fields and improve their spatial skills.