Extracurricular collaborative learning: Fostering understanding and interest in quantum technologies through escape games for future professionals

Abstract

Quantum technologies are gaining importance in applied research and industry, as they are increasingly developing towards industry-ready applications. This leads to a growing demand for qualified professionals in this sector. Accessible education formats are necessary to provide future professionals with an early and low-threshold introduction to this abstract and complex field. This work introduces the design, implementation, and evaluation of an escape game developed to convey quantum physics and quantum technologies, especially quantum sensing, to students from grade 9 onwards. The escape game workshop was applied in an extracurricular context, and its effects on students' interest in quantum technologies, perceived understanding, and quality of collaboration were investigated.The evaluation results from 87 students show that all examined outcomes (interest, perceived understanding, and quality of collaboration) were rated significantly above the neutral reference value. No significant differences were found with respect to gender, grade level, or prior knowledge, indicating broad accessibility.These findings provide initial evidence that educational escape games can serve as promising entry points for engaging secondary school students with complex key technologies such as quantum technologies.

Keywords: Quantum Education, Escape Game, Collaborative Learning, Problem-Solving Skills

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1008184