This presentation explores the transformative potential of Tabletop Roleplaying Games (TTRPGs), particularly Dungeons & Dragons, in higher education. Tabletop roleplaying games offer a widely accessible and open tool for education due to a large number of free resources readily available to interested consumers. From TTRPGs' inception in 1974 to their current surge in popularity, we examine their practical applications in a collegiate setting. Drawing on personal experiences, we connect TTRPGs to advising and coaching efforts, culminating in a theoretical framework for creating and implementing TTRPG game sessions with specific outcomes. Attendees will gain insights into how educational roleplaying games contribute to student development. The presentation offers practical tools for programmatic design.
Attendees of this session will be able to:- Develop a deep understanding of educational roleplay games as a tool for student development.
- Understand a theoretical framework for developing one-time educational roleplaying experiences that target specific identifiable development outcomes.
- Use coaching skills to enhance student learning outcomes through educational role-playing.
- Articulate how inclusive and diverse viewpoints can be lifted through educational roleplay games.
- Explore open-access software available to engage in tabletop roleplay games.
