Escape Room - Active Learning Activity

Escape Room

Photo credit: Reddit Escape Rooms Chat Room

Category

Information
Alias None
Bloom's Level Apply
CAFE Level Main Course
Class Size Any Class Size
Difficulty Advanced
Modality Face-to-Face, Hybrid, Online
Prep Time/
Materials		 Requires Planning
Creating Puzzles, Planning Flow, Digital Friendly
Time to Run 5-50 Minutes

Students solve a series of content-related puzzles or challenges to “unlock” clues and complete a goal. Tasks require students to apply course concepts rather than simply recalling facts. Students can work collaboratively or indiviually. They can be in-person, digital, or a combination of the two. The structure creates a sense of urgency and excitement, making learning both engaging and memorable.

RETURN TO INDEX
  • Plan ahead - know the path and outcomes
  • Start Simple - a couple of clues - grow over time
  • Be Clear - confusion about instructions can derail the activity - clarity is key
  • A countdown - adds energy and focus
  • Provide Hints - plan hints to reduce frustration
  • Test - Revise - Test
  • Debrief - discuss the experience and challenges

  • Google Forms
  • Google Slides
  • External Purchased Escape Room

Digital Escape Rooms allow student to participate in the problem-solving experience, either individually or in teams. They can be purchased or instructor-created. Possible tools to use Google Forms or Canvas LMS.