Educational Escape Room As An Innovative Pedagogical Resource In The Didactics of The Study of The Environment In Basic Education

Abstract: The study presented explores the potential of the Educational Escape Room (EER) as an innovative educational tool, in the context of the Curricular Unit of Didactics of the Study of the Environment in Basic Edu-cation, within the scope of the Degree in Basic Education, running in a Higher Education institution in the northeast of Portugal. The EER method is analysed in the light of its pedagogical contextualisation and its ability to promote active, immersive and motivating learning experiences. Six es-sential components for the design of an EER are described: the narrative, the content, the visual theme, the design of levels and challenges, the game mechanics, and the devices and resources, all of which are articulated with the curricular goals. To understand the feeling and contribution of this ap-proach, the study uses the content analysis of three reflective reports made by future educators/teachers. Anchored in the analysis of students' evi-dence, this approach aims to maximise the pedagogical contribution of EER, transforming the learning process into a collaborative and challenging adventure. The results underline the importance of carefully considering each element of the EER design to ensure that students' experience is engag-ing and aligned with the curricular goals and content proposed in the Cur-ricular Unit, thereby promoting a deep and lasting understanding of the top-ics covered in the Study of the Environment.