Play the role of a junior researcher that's tasked to research the effectiveness of a new CRISPR drug. Pick a hypothesis, run some lab experiments, and analyse the results before presenting your findings at the Institute seminar.
Unlock CRISPR is an educational game for A-Level classrooms that tests knowledge and understanding of CRISPR Cas-9 gene editing. Made in partnership with researchers and scientists at The Gurdon Institute (University of Cambridge), the game uses scenario-based learning to help Biology students get to grips with this ground-breaking new technology.
A-Level Students
Digital Escape Room
Gene Editing
The Challenge
To create a digital escape room that encourages A-Level students to explore the application of CRISPR genetic editing techniques. Inspired by a physical 'backpack' of puzzles that schools could book out, Unlock CRISPR enables a wider sharing of the innovative work taking place at the University of Cambridge's Gurdon Institute.
As well as uncover the mechanics of CRISPR, we were asked to design a way to show students what it's like to be a researcher. To do this we crafted a narrative that tasks players to interpret instructions from a supervisor, converse with colleagues, follow the scientific method, and present findings at a seminar.
Reviewed and verified by scientists at the Gurdon Institute, Unlock CRISPR is now deployed in classrooms to help A-Level students meet both AQA and OCR learning outcomes.
The Echo Games team provided a great deal of expertise and professionalism throughout the project. Unlock CRISPR is a valuable addition to our education programme, allowing us to reach more A-Level students.