Escape Zoom!: Reviewing Introductory Evolution Content Using an Escape Room Format

Abstract

Reviewing and integrating key concepts and learning goals at the end of a biology course can be overwhelming to students and instructors alike. Often end-of-term review sessions in preparation for final exams are heavily based on memorization, and content coverage may be favored over students&rsquo; deeper understanding of fewer key ideas. We developed a final exam review for a virtual introductory evolution course using an &ldquo;escape room&rdquo; format, which consisted of unique activities&mdash;including puzzles, role-playing, and literature searches&mdash;aligned with course learning goals. Similar to a traditional escape room, students needed to collaboratively solve or complete each activity before moving on to the subsequent task. Our escape room activity was conducted virtually via Zoom and included both whole-class and smaller breakout room interactions. We recommend instructors utilize escape rooms as an engaging and effective way to review key concepts in their courses. <em>Primary image:&nbsp;</em>Virtual Escape Room. In our activity, students virtually engage in activities related to evolutionary topics such as cichlid speciation, mRNA COVID-19 vaccines, and extinction, among others. All images used in this image are open source, and associated links for all images are listed here:&nbsp;<a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/smgTvepind4">https://unsplash.com/photos/smgTvepind4</a>, <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/4_hFxTsmaO4">https://unsplash.com/photos/4_hFxTsmaO4</a>, <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/_BJVJ4WcV1M">https://unsplash.com/photos/_BJVJ4WcV1M</a>, <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/k0KRNtqcjfw">https://unsplash.com/photos/k0KRNtqcjfw</a>, <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/Pitb97HIn6Y">https://unsplash.com/photos/Pitb97HIn6Y</a>