Chem?Sc@pe: an Organic Chemistry Learning Digital Escape Game

This article reports the development of Chem'Sc@pe, an escape game activity for first-and second-year undergraduate students, covering various topics from an introductory organic chemistry course. The objective was to encourage them to review notions learned in class in a fun and collaborative environment. The set comprises a game board representing 6 rooms of a chemistry laboratory, 30 thematic cards with puzzles to solve (multiple-choice questions, exercise, calculation, and model handling), various tools such as molecular models, and an android-based application. Students in teams of three to four had 60 min to solve enigmas related to functional groups, organic nomenclature, hybridization, stereochemistry, as well as lab-based activities. Each correct answer provides players with a 4-digit code, which gives access through the application to further levels and eventually to the conclusion of the game. History cards offering a short biography of famous chemists were also included in the game to promote scientific culture. Chem'Sc@pe was tested in 2021 with 70 first year chemistry students at the University of Montpellier (France). Assessment of the gamification activity by the students returned excellent reviews, showing that they enjoyed playing the game, found it easy to play, and described it as a useful learning experience.

Automated summary

This article presents the development of Chem'Sc@pe, an escape game activity designed for first-and second-year undergraduate students to review introductory organic chemistry concepts in a fun and collaborative environment. The game includes a game board, thematic cards with puzzles, tools such as molecular models, and an android-based application. Students work in teams to solve enigmas related to various organic chemistry topics in order to progress through the game. The activity was well-received by the students, who found it enjoyable, easy to play, and a beneficial learning experience.