Michele Crum's enrichment classes at Independence Primary School have taken learning to a whole new level. This fall, students were introduced to Breakout EDU boxes, transforming their classroom into an educational escape room that had them solving puzzles, cracking codes, and thinking outside the box—literally.
The Breakout EDU initiative turns conventional learning on its head by presenting students with a series of challenges that must be solved to open a locked box. This innovative approach has quickly become the talk of the school, with students eagerly anticipating their next chance to "break out."
The benefits of this unconventional learning method are great. Students are not just memorizing facts; they're applying knowledge in practical scenarios that require critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The challenges are designed to cater to various learning styles, incorporating elements of reading, observation, and even coding.
Perhaps most importantly, the Breakout EDU boxes foster a spirit of collaboration. Students must work together to decipher clues and overcome obstacles, promoting communication skills and teamwork in a way that traditional classroom settings often struggle to achieve.
"I've seen a remarkable change in how students interact," said Crum. "Even those who usually shy away from group activities are actively participating and contributing ideas."
The competitive nature of the activity adds an extra layer of excitement. Students race against the clock to solve all the puzzles, creating a palpable buzz of energy in the classroom. This time pressure also teaches valuable lessons in time management and working under deadlines—skills that will serve students well beyond their school years.
One of the most praised aspects of the Breakout EDU system is the immediate feedback it provides. As students solve each puzzle, they're instantly rewarded with progress towards their goal, maintaining high levels of engagement and motivation throughout the session.
With this creative approach to education, Independence Primary School is setting a new standard for interactive learning, proving that with a little imagination, the classroom can be transformed into a world of adventure and discovery.
Teacher Caitlin Sluka also does these breakouts regularly at IPS. She and Crum are writing a grant to the IPS PTO for three more boxes so they can create more opportunities for IPS students in their classrooms and beyond.
