The active learning specialists
Each puzzle has a number of matching words, statements or numbers based on specific learning outcomes which need to be matched together correctly in order to complete. The finished puzzle forming a pre-determined shape, a hexagon or triangle for example.
The puzzles encourage peer to peer learning, introducing an element of fun and competition into the learning environment, essential ingredients for an effective lesson.
Learners retain more knowledge if they are enjoying a lesson, a benefit to both the learner and the teacher.
The puzzles introduce both visual and tactile elements into the classroom, benefitting a diverse range of learner types.
The puzzles are designed to offer training providers a wider range of options for knowledge checking, a benefit to both the learner and trainer.
Designed to be effectively impossible to complete without the required level of knowledge, as a result of the many different permutations.
Studies have proved that the use of a range of teaching methods will increase both learner engagement and knowledge retention.
Each puzzle is supplied as a set of three, in different colours. You can then use the puzzles with multiple groups without mixing them up. We recommend up to five people per puzzle for maximum benefit.
Our puzzles are supplied with a puzzle summary sheet for reference purposes, listing the matching statements
Ethentic manufacture puzzles for many different learning environments, including schools, colleges and universities. We have also worked with organisations requiring knowledge checking of employees after the delivery of briefings or tool box talks.
We consult with highly experienced teachers covering different disciplines at puzzle design stage to ensure puzzles meet specified learning outcomes.
Passive learning
Knowledge retention rates
Source: National Training Laboratories
The Learning pyramid
An important learning principle, supported by extensive research.
The learning pyramid illustrates the percentage of knowledge retention associated with various methods of delivery.
If learners are actively involved and collaborate with others their knowledge retention rate will increase.
Why not use a puzzle?
Puzzle use and gallery
Our puzzles can be used in many different ways:
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Start with any piece and find the matching statements
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Use a puzzle at the end of a lesson as a knowledge checking exercise against learning outcomes
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If you are delivering a subject which involves separate elements or modules, use earlier puzzles in later sessions to check knowledge retention
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Use the puzzles as a refresher exercise to identify strengths or weaknesses and plan your lessons accordingly
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The puzzles can be used as quick revision exercises in preparation for an exam to test recall and reinforce knowledge
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Using our puzzles can help to identify areas of group or individual weakness, a useful lesson planning tool
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You can choose to inform the learners of the finished shape of the puzzle or not, giving that added element of difficulty
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Guide learners, whilst they are completing a puzzle or leave them to discuss and work through the different permutations themselves
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You can choose to give learners the option of referring to their own notes or course support materials whilst completing a puzzle
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Distribute individual pieces from one puzzle amongst groups of learners, then ask them to discuss or give further detail on any of the puzzle statements shown
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Leave the puzzles at the back of the room, learners can then select puzzles based on their own perceived subject strengths and weaknesses
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If you have a group of learners completing a puzzle, it is easy for the teacher to observe and identify learners displaying subject matter confidence issues, this approach can save on the embarrassment of a learner not being able to answer a direct question for example
Gallery images
Puzzle use and gallery
