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

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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