Hughes, Karen, Ye, Isabella Qing ORCID: 0000-0002-4835-0881 and Macionis, Niki (2021) Thinking outside the [escape] box: using game-based learning to test and reinforce students’ learning. In: CAUTHE 2021 Conference Online: Transformations in Uncertain Times: Future Perfect in Tourism, Hospitality and Events, 9th - 12th February 2021, Online.

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Abstract

As a service-oriented industry, tourism relies heavily on employees with good communication and problem-solving skills. Accordingy, higher education institutions are expected to produce graduates who possess a theoretical understanding of their field, as well as the skills and ability to adapt to new and challenging situations (Spowart, 2011). This paper explores the use of game-based learning (Šćepanović, Žarić & Matijević, 2015) to develop these skills. Two versions of an escape box were developed: a physical version with boxes and printed materials for a postgraduate course and a digital version for an online undergraduate course. In teams, students were required to solve puzzles embedded into scenarios exploring issues that had been discussed in the courses. Preliminary analysis reveals that both cohorts found the learning activities interesting, engaging and educational. They enjoyed solving challenges in a team environment and thought the ‘real world’ scenarios were a great way to consolidate their understanding of course content. Comparisons between the two cohorts’ feedback revealed that although the physical version was regarded as more stressful, it elicited more participation and created a sense of togetherness.

Item Type:	Conference or Conference Paper (Paper)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	game-based learning; escape box; soft skill development; learning; Higher Education
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > H Social Sciences (General) L Education > LB Theory and practice of education
Faculty / School / Research Centre / Research Group:	Faculty of Business Faculty of Business > Department of Marketing, Events & Tourism Faculty of Business > Tourism Research Centre
Related URLs:	Publisher
Last Modified:	06 Mar 2023 15:06
URI:	http://gala.gre.ac.uk/id/eprint/38754

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