15.45-17.50 UK

Presenter: Matthew Sanders, University of Edinburgh

Mary Collacott, University of Edinburgh 

“Yes, I’m a university student, but I don’t feel like studying AT the University of Edinburgh.” This statement could be uttered by any number of new students as they enter university. What steps can be taken to connect students as they transition (or return) to university?

This workshop explores how escape rooms were used at the University of Edinburgh to create a community of practice, highlight relevant induction skills and information, and provide a sense of belonging and connection to the campus, support services and each other. The Edinburgh Futures Institute’s fusion courses bring online and campus-based students together, requiring adoption of an unfamiliar hybrid approach to learning. In the Edinburgh Medical School, the fully online, part-time international students can miss out on available opportunities and support services due to unfamiliarity with the UK university experience/culture.

In this workshop, participants will have the opportunity to experience a slice of two escape modules. More than a show and tell, the facilitators will guide participants through a series of activities, providing practical advice and opportunities to develop unique artefacts related to their individual professional context.

Topics and activities will involve group and individual work to:

🔹Plan and structure an induction escape activity,

🔹Setting realistic goals

🔹Design puzzles and create an engaging narrative,

🔹Scaffold challenges

🔹Finding an authentic tone/voice

🔹Test puzzles and gather/respond to feedback.

Most activities will take place using virtual whiteboards. For the best experience, please use a device that will allow you to type and draw within this type of platform.