A project’s methodology can be perfectly designed, but its true value is only revealed when it is placed in the hands of the people who will bring it to life. This was the spirit of our recent ESCAPERS Trainer’s Local Lab, a day that marked a critical transition from theory to practice.
We gathered a remarkable group of professionals, adult educators and dedicated caregivers of the elderly, for a dual purpose: to train them in the ESCAPERS methodology and, just as importantly, to listen to their invaluable feedback.
Walking in Another’s Shoes
The heart of the lab was an immersive, hands-on experience. We didn’t just explain our escape games; we had the participants play them. Divided into teams, they were asked to take on the roles of both “the elderly” and “the youth,” experiencing the game’s challenges from two distinct perspectives.
The result was nothing short of magical. The room filled with strategy, discovery, and bursts of laughter. But beyond the fun, something deeper was happening. By taking on the roles of different generations, the participants didn’t just play a game; they built a bridge. It was a powerful demonstration of how a dedicated group of people, armed with the right game-based learning tools, can create a space for genuine intergenerational cooperation. The experience was funny, enjoyable, and, as many shared afterward, incredibly touching. It proved that the core purpose of ESCAPERS, to connect generations, is not just an idea, but a lived reality.
The Verdict: A Resounding Success
The feedback was unanimous: the methodology works! The participants not only grasped the facilitation techniques but also felt the emotional and educational impact of the games themselves. They saw the potential of game-based learning not just for entertainment, but as a powerful tool for creating real moments of connection and joy for the people they work with every day.
Most importantly, we saw a spark of ownership. Many attendees expressed their eagerness to take these practices back to their own organizations and implement them immediately. They didn’t just learn about ESCAPERS; they became a part of it.
The Ripple Effect Begins
This Trainer’s Lab was more than a successful event; it was the start of a ripple effect. A new group of skilled, passionate ambassadors is now ready to use these games to combat social isolation and build intergenerational bridges in their own communities.
All of them asked to be kept in the loop about the project’s future results, confirming that we are not just creating educational tools, but building a community. And that is the most meaningful victory of all.
