How can we meet the demanding expectations of clients?
many training organizations ask this question. before enrolling, clients thoroughly analyze the offer. they no longer settle for just checking the quality of the content; they are also interested in the pedagogical approach.
Trainers are compelled to rely on more innovative concepts
to meet evolving needs. many have introduced gamification into their training programs. the principle is to use games as a learning tool.
Several gamified solutions for educational use are now available
multiple-choice quizzes and quizzes are the most well-known. however, the digital escape game stands out as the best option. it is an effective educational tool, especially at a time when e-learning is becoming the norm. it also facilitates the understanding of complex concepts.
But what is the digital escape game?
how can its application be beneficial for learning? how to use it? training organizations may have many questions on the subject. they will find some answers in this article.
What is the digital escape game?
the escape game is primarily an entertaining activity. its goal is to find clues and solve puzzles to complete a mission or escape from a place. players must act within a defined time frame.
this puzzle game gained significant popularity following the opening of numerous rooms in france. it then adopted a digital format, taking the name of the digital escape game. it encourages players to deploy various technical skills to solve puzzles and navigate through their screens.
The digital escape game in professional training
currently, the digital escape game has become a true educational tool. indeed, training organizations increasingly favor playful approaches. it turns out that gamification facilitates the transmission of knowledge.
it allows the trainer to establish an interactive learning experience. by encouraging learner participation, we can help them quickly grasp concepts. they will not just be passive spectators trying to understand everything; they will be active participants, which facilitates skill acquisition.
incorporating the digital escape game into the program offers learners a unique experience. this playful learning will leave a lasting impression on them. it will generate emotions, boosting their memory.
to convey difficult-to-understand knowledge, the escape game is an excellent ally. students will easily memorize the concept if it is presented in a playful context. we can also help them understand its mechanisms.
the digital escape game also stimulates psychosocial skills. indeed, it promotes:
- collaboration
- communication
- team spirit
- learner engagement in learning
- understanding of the subject matter
- problem-solving ability
it should be noted that the digital escape game can be used during in-person training, but its use is especially recommended for remote courses.
Tip
it is essential to choose a gaming interface that is easily accessible to the target users.
Creating a digital escape game
using the digital escape game as a learning tool is certainly effective. however, it requires caution. first, it is essential to create a game suited to the topic at hand. there is no question of distracting learners or causing them to forget the purpose and objective of the training. so how do you create an adequate digital escape game?
Carefully develop the scenario
the creation of a digital escape game obviously begins with designing a good scenario. you must:
- define the objective or target of the project
- identify the participants (their profiles and their objectives in taking the training)
- identify constraints such as time, space, or budget
- create the plot
- create the puzzles
- script the game
one must not neglect the educational aspect of the game. always remember to help learners fully assimilate knowledge, regardless of its difficulty level.
however, overly difficult puzzles should be avoided, as they may discourage learners. adding achievable milestones is advisable, as it encourages their thinking and motivation.
Choose the format
the educational escape game can take various formats. training organizations can opt for a treasure hunt or interactive stories, for example. for the puzzles, various digital tools can be used, such as:
- qr codes
- virtual locks
- exercise tools
- s’cape extensions, etc.
ensure that the puzzles and decorative elements are compatible with the concept to be learned.
Develop the game
it is possible to collaborate with experts when developing a digital escape game. the training organization needs only to present the project and the objectives to be achieved.
it is the expert’s job to develop the application or gaming platform. they will create the visuals, setting, sound ambiance, music, and puzzles. the design of a digital escape game for educational use ends with testing.
throughout the process, the developer and the trainer must collaborate closely. they must ensure that the game is both educational and enjoyable. the goal is to offer learners the pleasure of learning and succeeding with:
- a handful of relevant puzzles
- a touch of captivating challenge
- a sprinkle of fun
Integrating the digital escape game into the course
the principle of this pedagogical approach is indeed to integrate a part of puzzle gaming into the course. the trainer can use various types of support. in the case of remote training, for example, it is possible to gather participants on skype, zoom, microsoft teams, or google meet.
always start the session with a brief briefing. indeed, the trainer must first present the concept to be studied. they will then explain the activity’s progression and announce the duration of the session.
ensure that access to the game is not time-limited. it will then be possible to pause the session and resume it later. the trainer can take the opportunity to provide feedback to learners and offer additional information to enrich the content.