In this episode, we explore using tabletop roleplaying games (TTRPGs) for language learning. Shane Dunkle, a Language Pedagogy Specialist at the University of Chicago, shares his research on assessing English proficiency through board games and TTRPGs like D&D.

Discover how these games create an engaging environment for practicing real-world communication skills, from mastering idioms to navigating social cues. Shane reveals strategies for convincing skeptical faculty and his vision for embracing TTRPGs as a mainstream educational tool.

0:00 Opening
0:10 Exclusive Charity Offer Reveal – How Your Purchase Can Change Lives
2:49 Meet the Gamer Turned Innovative Educator Revolutionizing Language Learning
4:06 Traditional vs Game-Based Teaching: The Authenticity Showdown
18:26 From Munchkin to Murderhobo: Navigating the RPG Classroom Transition
21:31 Mastering Real-World Interactions Through In-Game Role-Play
28:34 Student Resistors vs Faculty Skeptics: Overcoming Unconventional Hurdles
33:51 Three Wishes to Transform Language Education Worldwide
35:45 The Recipe for Educators: Embracing Unorthodox Methods That Work
40:47 Convincing the Naysayers: A Manifesto for Embracing Gaming in Academics
42:34 Behind the Scenes: Upcoming Pedagogical Playground Projects
44:47 Your Doorway to Immersive Language Learning Resources

• Wyrmworks Publishing: https://wyrmworkspublishing.com
• Rio Grande Flood Charity Bundle: http://rio.inclusiverpg.com
• University of Chicago English Language Institute: http://esl.uchicago.edu/
• Wyrmworks Publishing Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wyrmworkspublishing

In this thought-provoking episode, Dale sits down with Dr. Dave Eng, an expert in using board games for educational purposes. Dr. Eng shares his groundbreaking insights on how tabletop games can revolutionize the learning experience. From cooperative classics like Pandemic to the innovative “Matrix Games” that leverage words over numbers, this episode dives into the benefits of interactive gameplay in classrooms. Discover how board games can foster critical thinking, teamwork, and experiential learning in ways traditional lectures cannot. Learn about Dr. Eng’s inspiring work and his mission to bring gaming literacy to educators worldwide. 

Plus, Dale reveals Wyrmworks Publishing’s pioneering effort to introduce the first-ever braille ruleset for tabletop RPGs, making the hobby more accessible than ever before.

0:00 Introducing Braille to the TTRPG hobby

06:49 Interview: Dave Eng, EdD on gamifying education

42:16 An invitation to change the world

Links:

• Wyrmworks Publishing http://wyrmworkspublishing.com/ 
• Braille System Reference Document for D&D 5E on DriveThruRPG https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/472156/5e-SRD-51-System-Reference-Document-Braille-Transcription-and-Tutorial?affiliate_id=2455077 
• Dr. Dave Eng https://davengdesign.com/
• UniversityXP https://universityxp.com/ 
• Banditos Gaming https://www.banditosgaming.com/ 
• Wyrmworks Publishing Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wyrmworkspublishing

Manually captioned. Transcript available at our website.

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We speak with Dr. Tanya Pobuda, an expert on issues of representation and inclusion in tabletop gaming. She shares insights from her groundbreaking research on gender and racial representation in contemporary board gaming.

Throughout the conversation, Dr. Pobuda provides data-driven perspectives on the false narrative that “diversity doesn’t sell” and highlights positive shifts that are possible when inclusive practices are embraced.

0:00 Introduction: Braille in TTRPG
01:50 Interview: Dr. Tanya A. Pobuda
52:49 Patreon Showcase & closing

Manually captioned. Transcript available in the feed and at our website.

Links:

• Dr. Tanya Pobuda’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/PobudaTanya
• Dr. Pobuda’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@tanyapobuda
• Our Family Plays Games YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/OurFamilyPlaysGames
• Wyrmworks Publishing: http://wyrmworkspublishing.com
• Ready-to-Roll: Feyweather Friends adventure on Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/wyrmworkspublishing/ready-to-roll-last-minute-no-prep-dandd-5e-adventure-1?ref=dqmst7
• Wyrmworks Publishing Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wyrmworkspublishing

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