Implementation of Emergency Management Exercises as Alternate Reality Games – Students’ Perceptions

Abstract

Emergency management exercises could be carried out as simulations or serious games, as they allow for infinite replications in which participants can make mistakes without negative consequences. Alternate reality games (ARGs) offer a model for interactive networked narratives based on realistic and immersive emergency scenarios, and possibilities for collaborative problem solving with peer-to-peer communication. The aim of the paper is to analyze and discuss students’ attitudes towards the implementation of an emergency management exercise as a game inspired by ARGs, comprising a virtual crisis management exercise system. The study on which the paper is based was conducted using a qualitative approach together with a literature review and a thematic analysis of university students’ answers to an evaluation questionnaire, following their participation in a virtual exercise with an ARG design. The findings suggest that ARG concepts have potential in emergency management training and could be tested with rescue services staff, also across national borders. Realism should however be increased and additional ARG concepts added.