Department of Defense Education Activity Embraces Minecraft for Social-Emotional Learning
The Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) is exploring innovative educational tools, notably the popular video game Minecraft, to enhance social-emotional learning (SEL) among middle school students. A recent communication from a DoDEA teacher highlighted the game’s potential to foster essential skills such as collaboration, communication, empathy, mindfulness, social management, coping strategies, self-awareness, and problem-solving.
While the initiative aims to equip students with the tools to navigate their emotions and build positive relationships, it has drawn scrutiny for its underlying connections to broader educational frameworks, including critical race theory (CRT). Critics argue that SEL, as implemented in various educational settings, often intertwines with these more contentious ideologies.
In a historical context, the educational landscape has seen significant shifts, particularly following executive orders issued by former President Trump during his initial weeks in office. These orders sought to prohibit the incorporation of radical gender ideology, CRT, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) instruction in federally funded education programs, which includes military base schools operated by DoDEA. This system serves over 67,000 military-connected students across 161 schools in 11 foreign countries, seven U.S. states, and two territories.
The teacher’s endorsement of Minecraft emphasizes its role in promoting teamwork and critical thinking, as well as facilitating safe social interactions. He noted that the game’s role-playing and storytelling elements enable students to engage with diverse perspectives, thereby enhancing their emotional awareness.
In a recent meeting, it was revealed that DoDEA has rebranded its social-emotional learning initiatives as “resilience” programs. This shift aligns with Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth’s commitment to uphold the president’s directives regarding DEI at the Department of Defense. Hegseth stated unequivocally, “The Pentagon will comply, immediately. No exceptions, name-changes, or delays.”
Prior to the implementation of these executive orders, Pentagon schools faced criticism for their library offerings, which included books deemed inappropriate for certain age groups. Titles such as “All Boys Aren’t Blue,” “Sex: A Book for Teens,” and “This Book is Gay” were among those that sparked controversy, highlighting the ongoing debate surrounding educational content in military-connected schools.
