What is it about?

While game-based learning is generally accepted as an effective pedagogy for teaching, the use of tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) for learning -- the most popular example being Dungeons & Dragons -- is more novel and niche. However, research, case studies and anecdotes show both the potential of TTRPGs in classrooms and its proven ability to positively impact student learning. In this chapter excerpt from a longer anthology multi-author book "Urgent Care for Educators: Situating Responsibility as a Way for Educators to Transform School Cultures," the story of Kentucky Educators for Role Playing Games (kyedrpg.com) is highlighted, along with the work of several Kentucky K-12 educators using TTRPGs in their learning spaces.

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Why is it important?

The social dimensions of learning in a post-pandemic world are more important than ever when considering instructional design. TTRPGs can not only deliver academic content in an innovative, authentic way, but it can also be an engaging method for students to practice social-emotional learning (SEL) and durable skills. Additionally, teachers today are feeling isolated, are seeking new ways to bring joy to their profession, and struggle with finding network collegial supports. In the story of KyEdRPG, TTRPGs are shown to help the instructors as much as their instruction.

Perspectives

I have been a Kentucky public school educator since 2005. I started as a high school English teacher, then became a district Digital Learning Coordinator, and currently am a Digital Learning Consultant for the Ohio Valley Educational Cooperative which serves 14 districts and 150,000 students. In 2022, I launched Kentucky Educators for Role Playing Games (kyedrpg.com), which has become a hub of resources and celebration of stories. Additionally, I've facilitated professional development on the topic of TTRPGs in education that has proven to be very popular. My forthcoming book "Tabletop Role-Playing Games in the Classroom: Infusing Gameplay into K-12 Instruction" will be published by McFarland.

Adam Watson
Ohio Valley Educational Cooperative

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This page is a summary of: Bearing the Torch for the Party, December 2025, De Gruyter,
DOI: 10.1163/9789004736658_024.
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