As part of the Next Exit Biodiversity project, the topic of biodiversity was turned into an interactive game in the form of a race against time and distributed to schools across Germany. The concept is based on the idea of escape games, in which a small group must solve a complex puzzle within a set time limit. This was adapted for groups of up to 30 people and themed around biodiversity. A game box containing all the necessary materials was produced in a limited edition of 1,000 and distributed free of charge to schools throughout Germany as part of the project. Accompanying the game, educational materials were developed to provide teachers with a wealth of background information and ideas for further projects.
Next Exit Biodiversity thus attempts to introduce young people to the topic of nature conservation in a playful way. In addition to expanding their knowledge of biodiversity, the project encouraged young people to implement measures and projects at school or in their private lives to strengthen biodiversity. The interactive nature of the game strengthened the social skills of the young people and brought the topic of biodiversity into sharper focus.
The project was funded under the Bundesprogramm Biologische Vielfalt by the Bundesamt für Naturschutz with funds of the Bundesministeriums für Umwelt, Naturschutz und nukleare Sicherheit.
Next Exit Biodiversity has been awarded an overall rating of ‘Good’ by Materialkompass! Materialkompass is an online service provided by the Verbraucherzentrale Bundesverbands (vzbv) that promotes the quality of educational materials for consumer education and makes advertising influence in schools transparent.
Link to the test
The Game
- Target group: Schools and educational institutions that regularly engage in ESD; not open to individuals
- Age group: 14 years and older
- Recommended group size: 10-30 people
- Duration: (including set-up, introduction, feedback) approx. 90 minutes.
Next Exit Biodiversity is a mobile escape game. Within a set time limit, players must decipher codes to solve an overarching puzzle. The codes are designed in such a way that success can only be achieved through good communication and coordinated teamwork. The aim is to solve puzzles related to biodiversity step by step against the clock. This makes learning about the topic fun.
The game is designed for young people aged 14 and above and for groups of 10 to 30 players. All the materials required are included in the Next Exit Biodiversity Box, and the game lasts approximately 90 minutes. Players puzzle their way through five levels to the final, learning about biodiversity, the threats to it and, above all, what can be done to preserve it. In addition, extensive accompanying material is available, offering technical and educational support such as background information, teaching modules and project suggestions.
Unfortunately, all game boxes produced for this project are sold out. Orders are no longer possible.
‘Yesterday, we tried out your escape room for the first time in an eighth-grade class. The students really enjoyed it. They loved the puzzles, and the subject matter was appropriate. Both high-achieving and weaker students were able to participate. They were particularly surprised to see the YouTuber, which provided additional motivation.’
Feedback from a secondary school teacher in Paderborn
Orders
As part of the project, a game box with a print run of 1,000 was produced and distributed (free of charge) to schools throughout Germany.
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