Fostering creativity through an Escape game

Abstract

The 21st century is one of evolution and change and the impact on education is now being felt at all levels and concerns students of all ages. This reseach focuses on adults (n= 10) in higher education who are studying to be teachers and thus are impacted from the point of view of learners today who the transposition of the methods that they experienced in the classroom will impact learners of tomorrow. Keeping in mind the changing skills set that industry expects from graduates, one that includes competencies such as creativity, flexibility and, critical thinking it behoves educators to find ways to innovate in their classrooms in order to develop such skills. This paper presents results from the use of an escape game as an innovative way in which to develop just such skills. An escape game was designed specifically for final-year Masters students to develop their research skills. Both quantitative and qualitative results show the link between creativity, emotions and motivation to learn. Findings are discussed in terms of innovative classroom practice and will be of interest to educators, instructional designers and programme directors alike.