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USING A VIRTUAL ESCAPE ROOM TO TEACH GEOLOGICAL TIME: AN ACTION RESEARCH STUDY WITH 10TH-GRADE STUDENTS

Beatriz Sousa, Tiago Ribeiro, Clara Vasconcelos

First published: 2025https://doi.org/10.35603/sws.iscss.2025/s05.84View metrics

Abstract

Teaching geological time is a persistent challenge in Geoscience education due to students’ difficulties in conceptualising deep time and abstract temporal scales. This study aimed to design, implement, and evaluate the effectiveness of a Virtual Escape Room (VER) as an active learning resource to promote understanding of geological time among 10th-grade students. Grounded in a Game-Based Learning (GBL) framework and implemented within an Action Research (AR) methodology, the study focused on both cognitive and motivational dimensions of learning. The pedagogical intervention involved 23 students and comprised a sequence of challenges organised around three geological eras – Palaeozoic, Mesozoic, and Cenozoic. Data collection combined quantitative and qualitative techniques: (i) a post-test and delayed re-test to assess knowledge acquisition and retention; (ii) structured classroom observations; (iii) a snapshot report; and (iv) semi-structured interviews analysis. Quantitative data showed a improvement in students’ performance. Observation grids indicated high levels of engagement and collaboration, while Likert-scale responses revealed uniformly positive attitudes toward the use of digital tools and game-based strategies. Thematic analysis of interviews highlighted the VER’s ability to foster critical thinking, contextual application of geoscientific knowledge, and student autonomy. Nonetheless, challenges were identified, including time constraints, unequal group dynamics, and occasional technical limitations. Overall, results support the pedagogical value of VER in secondary science education. The study advocates for integrating digital and game-based methodologies to enhance motivation, conceptual understanding, and the development of 21st-century skills.

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Publication details

Title
USING A VIRTUAL ESCAPE ROOM TO TEACH GEOLOGICAL TIME: AN ACTION RESEARCH STUDY WITH 10TH-GRADE STUDENTS
Authors
Beatriz Sousa, Tiago Ribeiro, Clara Vasconcelos
Proceedings
Proceedings of 12th SWS International Scientific Conference on Social Sciences - ISCSS 2025
Publisher
SGEM WORLD SCIENCE (SWS) Scholarly Society
Year
2025
Pages
697-706
SWS Citekey
Sousa20259697706
ISSN
2682-9959
ISBN
978-3-903438-16-3
Language
en
Publication type
Proceedings Paper
Keywords
Action researchGame-based learningGeological timeVirtual Escape Room
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