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Article
The research escape hunt: An escape room-scavenger hunt for resident education
AEM Education and Training
  • Timothy S Fallon, Department of Emergency Medicine Maine Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine Portland Maine USA.
  • Carl A Germann, Department of Emergency Medicine Maine Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine Portland Maine USA.
  • Rob Anderson, Department of Emergency Medicine Maine Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine Portland Maine USA.
  • Tania D Strout, Department of Emergency Medicine, Maine Medical Center Tufts University School of Medicine Portland Maine USA.
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
12-1-2022
Institution/Department
Emergency Medicine
Disciplines
Abstract

OBJECTIVES: Research and evidence-based medicine (EBM) education are important elements of emergency medicine (EM) residency training; however, curricular time is limited and integrating novel strategies to engage learners and improve understanding of complex concepts is challenging. We sought to develop a unique research escape hunt educational experience to teach EM residents basic research and EBM skills using an active-learning, team-based strategy. METHODS: A nine-station escape room-scavenger hunt was designed around educational content including (1) predictive statistics and diagnostic test characteristics, (2) interpretation of data and statistical analysis, (3) study design, (4) informed consent for research, and (5) the ethical principles guiding research. Stations required participants to use a variety of strategies to solve puzzles, with a correct response required to progress through the escape hunt. Teams worked together to solve each station's puzzles, with opportunities to reinforce the content in real time. Subsequent sessions were presented in a virtual format using Zoom breakout rooms over the past 2 years. RESULTS: Postactivity assessments were grounded in Kirkpatrick's model and focused on participants' reactions, learning, and behavior. Participants reported high levels of satisfaction (100% [21/21] "satisfied" or "extremely satisfied") and engagement (95% [20/21] "engaged" or "very engaged") with the activity, as well as increased comfort with the research and EBM concepts covered (91% [19/21] "agree" or "strongly agree" increased comfort), and demonstrated improvements in knowledge across each content area presented (91% [19/21]). REFLECTIVE DISCUSSION: This practical, team-based curriculum was found to be a successful way to engage residents with research methodology and EBM content. This curriculum is feasible for both in-person and virtual formats and we will continue to use this as a component of our EM residency program moving forward.

Citation Information
Fallon TS, Germann CA, Anderson RS, Strout TD. The research escape hunt: An escape room-scavenger hunt for resident education. AEM Educ Train. 2022;6(6):e10833. Published 2022 Dec 20. doi:10.1002/aet2.10833