MagnetXplorers is an interactive, quiz-based escape game format on medical imaging developed at the Medical University of Vienna in cooperation with the University of Vienna.
Its aim is to teach physical foundations, technical principles, and clinical applications of imaging modalities such as MRI, X-ray, CT, and ultrasound in an integrated and hands-on manner.
Within a narrative case scenario, participants work in small groups to decipher the medical condition of a fictional creature. Across four rotating stations, they conduct experiments, analyze data, and solve problem-based tasks. The format combines simulation, real measurements, and collaborative decision-making, thereby fostering analytical thinking, interdisciplinary integration, and evidence-based reasoning.
The project currently targets participants shortly before entering university but is specifically designed to be adaptable to higher education teaching. In addition to the workshops conducted at the Medical University of Vienna, modular open-source digital materials are available. These resources can be used independently of the developers and flexibly integrated into school or university settings. MagnetXplorers strengthens subject understanding, trust in science, and interest in STEM through research-oriented, activating teaching.
Impressions
Team
- Roberta Frass-Kriegl
- Nicole Liemberger
- Jean-Lynce Gnanago
- Miriam Kager
- Lena Nohava
- Onisim Soanca
- Nadja Ahmetovic
- Marianne Korner (Universität Wien)
Roberta Frass-Kriegl
P +43 (0)1 40400-64580
roberta.frass@meduniwien.ac.at
Publications
- Liemberger N, Gnanago JL, Kager M, Nohava L, Soanca O, Korner M, Frass-Kriegl R, MagnetXplorers: First Experience with a Medical Imaging Escape Game. ISMRM & ISMRT Annual Meeting & Exhibition, 09-14 May, 2026, Capetown (South Africa)
- Gnanago JL, Liemberger N, Kager M, Nohava L, Soanca O, Korner M, Frass-Kriegl R, MagnetXplorers – A Fun Dive into Medical Imaging. Proc. ESMRMB, 2025, #48959 - PA03, in Book of Abstracts ESMRMB 2025 Online 41st Annual Scientific Meeting 8–11 October 2025—Registered Reports and Project Abstracts. Magn Reson Mater Phy 38 (Suppl 1), 891–917 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10334-025-01300-z.
Partners
Funding
Funded by the Vienna Business Agency. A fund of the City of Vienna. This research was funded in part by the Austrian Science Fund (FWF), Grant-DOI: 10.55776/P37189.