Escape the Viral Vortex: A Fact-Checking Escape Room Game

Welcome to the Viral Vortex, a whirlwind of unchecked trending posts, shocking rumors, and head-scratching headlines. You must sift through these claims and expose the truth before time runs out. Otherwise, you'll be at the mercy of the internet evil-doers . . . forever! Escape the Viral Vortex is an interactive game-based learning experience that teaches students how to fact-check information and evaluate the credibility of sources. Students work in small groups to verify or debunk viral claims, solve puzzles, and apply evidence-based fact-checking strategies in real time. This innovative project utilizes gamification and collaborative learning to teach vital 21st-century information and digital literacy skills. It engages students as active investigators and problem solvers while strengthening analytic skills. Additionally, this project is adaptable to various courses and topics, providing relevant and real-world applications of skills that align with student learning outcomes.

Innovators

• Michael Dzbenski, Director, Teaching and Learning
• Serene Rock, Faculty, Library