Anatomy Escapes the Classroom: A Case Study on Designing an Interactive Anatomy-Themed Escape Room Using Generative AI and Anatomage Technology
Keywords:
Anatomage, anatomy, ChatGPT, escape room, experiential learning, gamification, generative AI.Abstract
Gamification in anatomy and physiology education has gained traction for its ability to improve engagement and deepen content mastery. This case study explores the design and implementation of Viva Vagus – The Last Bet, a live anatomy escape room conducted at the National Anatomage Tournament in Las Vegas, Nevada. The experience was co-developed with ChatGPT, a generative AI (genAI) model, which supported the creation of storylines, puzzles, and immersive materials. Students navigated five anatomy-themed “casinos” to collect neural chips that were wagered in a final bet to stop the clock, escape the room, and win the game. Facilitators’ observations revealed strong student engagement, problem-solving skills, and anatomical reasoning. This study demonstrates the feasibility of genAI-enhanced design in educational gamification, outlines its challenges and limitations, and offers a replicable model for immersive active learning. This case study serves as an introduction to future research on genAI-enhanced teaching strategies, highlighting the broader potential of transforming educational design, student engagement, and active learning across disciplines.
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