Escape Rooms

Escape Rooms

Escape Rooms are immersive, game-based learning experiences where learners collaboratively solve puzzles and complete tasks under time constraints to achieve a specific goal—often to “escape” a scenario. These can be physical, digital, or hybrid environments. 

Alternative/linked methods: Digital Escape Games, Breakout Boxes, Simulation Puzzles, Scenario-Based Learning Games, Gamified Learning Modules, Escape Boxes 

Why?

• Promote active learning and engagement through gamification. 
• Develop soft skills such as teamwork, communication, leadership, and decision-making. 
• Foster creativity and problem-solving in a collaborative environment. 
• Support knowledge retention and application of theoretical content. 

How?

• Define learning objectives aligned with course outcomes. 
• Design a narrative that is immersive, consistent, and challenging. 
• Create puzzles that align with learning goals. 
• Structure gameplay using sequential, path-based, or hybrid puzzle paths. 
• Facilitate the session with a Game Master who monitors, guides, and debriefs. 

When?

• At the start of a course to build community and introduce key concepts. 
• During mid-course or end-of-term for formative or summative assessment. 
• As a team-building activity to enhance group dynamics and communication. 
• To reinforce or assess specific skills or knowledge. 

Get Started

• Start with clear learning outcomes. 
• Use a narrative to enhance immersion. 
• Scaffold puzzles from easy to challenging. 
• Include hints or support mechanisms to prevent frustration. 

Digital Enhancement

• Fully digital escape rooms using OneNote, Moodle, or Microsoft Forms. 
• Hybrid models with physical kits and online clues. 
• Teams breakout rooms for collaborative problem-solving. 
• Timed challenges to simulate real-world pressure and enhance engagement. 
• Password-protected puzzles to unlock new content and maintain flow. 

Resources

• Colthup, R. and Ross, A.L., 2024. Classroom to escape room: an innovative experience to prepare and test students. Journal of Paramedic Practice, 16(1), pp.26–34. https://doi.org/10.12968/jpar.2024.16.1.26 
• Fotaris, P. and Mastoras, T., 2019. Escape rooms for learning: A systematic review. In: Proceedings of the 13th European Conference on Game-Based Learning (ECGBL 2019), Reading, UK, 3–4 October 2019. Reading: Academic Conferences International Limited, pp.235–243. https://doi.org/10.34190/GBL.19.179 
• Heywood, J., 2022. Escape rooms: discovering clues, solving puzzles and working as a team. In: Active Learning Network, ed. 100 Ideas for Active Learning.