Microsoft is getting ready to launch a program that will teach kids how to code through its "Minecraft" game.
The project is part of the upcoming Hour of Code annual event that aims to show that coding can be easily learned by everyone, Time reported.
For the program, Microsoft partnered with Code.org, the host of the event. Using "Minecraft," which Microsoft now owns as part of its $2.5 billion acquisition of Swedish development studio Mojang last year, the giant will teach young gamers the art of coding in an easy and entertainment way.
Those who will sign up for the program will be enrolled in an hour-long course guided by Alex or Steve, the main characters of "Minecraft." Their objective will be to successfully solve 14 coding challenges with the goal of getting these characters across a 2D version of the "Minecraft" world.
But, instead of typing in codes, the program's participants will use the Google-made tool called Blocky, which consists of blocks of code lines.
After each successfully solved puzzle, the program will reveal the JavaScript's lines of text that were used to complete the tutorial to give the participants an idea of the application of what they have just learned.
Of course, aside from Alex and Steve, the "Minecraft" module will also be facilitated by human teachers. Staff members from Microsoft and Mojang, including "Minecraft" developer Jens Bergensten will orient participants on how to use coding to get through the challenges.
According to Microsoft head Satya Nadella, the program is geared towards forming a new generation of coders to prepare them for the future.
"A core part of our mission to empower every person on the planet is equipping youth with computational thinking and problem-solving skills to succeed in an increasingly digital world," the executive said in a statement according to CNET.
"With Minecraft and Code.org, we aim to spark creativity in the next generation of innovators in a way that is natural, collaborative and fun," Nadella added.
The "Minecraft" coding program will begin during the Hour of Code event that will take place from December 7 to 13 during the Computer Science Education Week. Aside from "Minecraft," other similar modules based on "Star Wars" and the animated film "Frozen" will also be conducted during the upcoming event next month.
Those who would like to try out the "Minecraft" module before the Hour of Code event can do so through the Code.org website.
