Slow Rogaining: An Innovative Teamwork Model for Computer Science Education

We present a novel teamwork model based on rogaining that since 2018 we have successfully applied in several events of our University. Our model, named Slow Rogaining, exploits gamification principles in order to engage participants, divided in teams, in a rogaine built on top of compelling activities related to computer science. The term slow (inspired by the slow food philosophy) is used to emphasize the difference with standard outdoor rogaines. Indeed, Slow Rogaining is mainly designed as an indoor navigational activity with a limited time duration (3-4 hours). In the paper, we provide a multi-layer analysis of our model in terms of soft skill development for participants and mentors, orienteering goals, computer science disciplinary teaching goals. We will also discuss the benefits of introducing a technology support activities developed according to this model both in practice (on the field) and in theory (in the design phase).