Rapidly Prototyping an Immersive 3D Escape Room Game Empowered by Generative AI for Cybersecurity Training

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Rapidly Prototyping an Immersive 3D Escape Room Game Empowered by Generative AI for Cybersecurity Training
Language: English
Authors: Hunhui Na (ORCID 0000-0003-2157-6685), Mohan Yang (ORCID 0000-0003-0856-0814)
Source: International Journal of Designs for Learning. 2026 17(1):28-39.
Availability: Indiana University. 107 South Indiana Avenue, Bryan Hall 203B, Bloomington, IN 47405. Tel: 317-274-5647; Fax: 317-278-2360; e-mail: ijdl@indiana.edu; Web site: https://scholarworks.iu.edu/journals/index.php/ijdl
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 12
Publication Date: 2026
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Education Level: Elementary Education
Secondary Education
Descriptors: Educational Games, Puzzles, Problem Solving, Computer Simulation, Computer Security, Training, Artificial Intelligence, Technology Uses in Education, Technology Integration, Skill Development, Elementary School Students, Secondary School Students, Instructional Design, Learning Experience, Usability, Needs Assessment, Educational Quality
DOI: 10.14434/ijdl.v17i1.40912
ISSN: 2159-449X
Abstract: The increasing frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks underscore the urgent need for cybersecurity education, particularly for K-12 students who are often vulnerable to digital threats. Despite its importance, access to cybersecurity education remains limited, especially in low-resourced schools. To address this gap, we developed a ChatGPT-integrated 3D immersive escape room game aimed at equipping K-12 students with essential cybersecurity skills. Over a two-month intensive design and development period, this design case details our iterative design process, collaboration with subject matter experts, game developers, and K-12 teachers, and the pivotal role of generative AI in enabling personalized and adaptive learning experiences. Alongside positive feedback from an early usability test, the study shares key challenges that naturally arose during the rapid prototyping process. This design case provides valuable insights into the creation of educational games, particularly in contexts requiring rapid prototyping.
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2026
Accession Number: EJ1506093
Database: ERIC
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  Data: Rapidly Prototyping an Immersive 3D Escape Room Game Empowered by Generative AI for Cybersecurity Training
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  Data: <searchLink fieldCode="AR" term="%22Hunhui+Na%22">Hunhui Na</searchLink> (ORCID <externalLink term="https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2157-6685">0000-0003-2157-6685</externalLink>)<br /><searchLink fieldCode="AR" term="%22Mohan+Yang%22">Mohan Yang</searchLink> (ORCID <externalLink term="https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0856-0814">0000-0003-0856-0814</externalLink>)
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  Data: <searchLink fieldCode="SO" term="%22International+Journal+of+Designs+for+Learning%22"><i>International Journal of Designs for Learning</i></searchLink>. 2026 17(1):28-39.
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  Data: Indiana University. 107 South Indiana Avenue, Bryan Hall 203B, Bloomington, IN 47405. Tel: 317-274-5647; Fax: 317-278-2360; e-mail: ijdl@indiana.edu; Web site: https://scholarworks.iu.edu/journals/index.php/ijdl
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  Data: The increasing frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks underscore the urgent need for cybersecurity education, particularly for K-12 students who are often vulnerable to digital threats. Despite its importance, access to cybersecurity education remains limited, especially in low-resourced schools. To address this gap, we developed a ChatGPT-integrated 3D immersive escape room game aimed at equipping K-12 students with essential cybersecurity skills. Over a two-month intensive design and development period, this design case details our iterative design process, collaboration with subject matter experts, game developers, and K-12 teachers, and the pivotal role of generative AI in enabling personalized and adaptive learning experiences. Alongside positive feedback from an early usability test, the study shares key challenges that naturally arose during the rapid prototyping process. This design case provides valuable insights into the creation of educational games, particularly in contexts requiring rapid prototyping.
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      – TitleFull: Rapidly Prototyping an Immersive 3D Escape Room Game Empowered by Generative AI for Cybersecurity Training
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