Educational escape games in primary and secondary education: a framework synthesis review

Abstract

The growth of recreational escape rooms has inspired educators across the globe to create educational versions of these games, known as educational escape games (EEGs). However, there is limited understanding of how these new learning environments function within the contexts of primary and secondary education because the majority of primary-level studies on EEGs that have been covered in existing systematic reviews target higher education. This framework synthesis review of 35 peer-reviewed journal articles analyses the characteristics of EEGs and their educational contexts in primary and secondary education. It also examines design criteria and recommendations and discusses the significance of the results for future practice and research. The synthesis builds on the findings of previous reviews of EEGs while also contributing new insights by providing a more nuanced understanding of the use, design and effectiveness of distinct EEG game shapes across specific primary and secondary educational settings. The results show that EEGs are versatile educational activities that improve motivation, engagement, satisfaction and collaboration among students and can also support short-term knowledge acquisition. Finally, the review provides design recommendations for the use of EEGs in primary and secondary education settings.