A rich tradition of role playing and story-telling in popular fantasy games involving quests is now a course at a Port Coquitlam high school.
School District 43 (SD43) trustees approved a new Grade 11 course called Social Dynamics in TTRPGs (Table Top Role Playing Games) after an enthusiastic presentation by three Riverside Secondary instructors.
On Tuesday (Nov. 29), teacher Cary Brett told trustees that students will use their imaginations, along with pen, paper and dice, to embark on quests, with students taking on different personnas and leading the game.
Although Dungeons and Dragons (D&D) isn't the only game they'll play, students will learn leadership skills, such as positive communication, through the TTRPG format.
As well, the four-credit course starting next fall will require writing and math, and allow students to explore 3D printing, painting and art as well as coding, and produce podcasts and YouTube videos.
First Nations' oral storytelling traditions will also be part of the high school course, which grew out of Riverside's 60-member D&D club.
D&D teaches skills to 'run a board meeting'
"There’s a huge group of students who show these different leadership qualities while they play," said teacher Mike Schoenhals.
"They [games] provide students with the ability to build confidence in their classes and beyond as they become life long learners."
Teacher Angela Beckett said the skills students learn through Social Dynamics in TTRPGs are those they'll need to "confidently run a board meeting."
"We see the skills are going to translate outside the game because there is such an emphasis to build these connections," Beckett said, while also stressing the mental health benefits of TTRPGs as students work together collaboratively on their quest.
Noting that there is a "high number" of students suffering from anxiety and depression "especially since COVID," Beckett said the course will build skills that are "predictive of sucess," including self-control, empathy and an overall sense of well-being.
"Some students may not be thriving," Beckett said, "but in a safe setting, they’re really going to shine."
A course outline explained how playing D&D, or other TTRPGs, such as Blades in the Dark, Call of Cthulhu, Monster of the Week, Cyberpunk Red, and Lasers & Feelings, can build social skills.
Developing social and language skills
"To achieve a successful play session, individuals need to feel valued and heard. TTRPGs require skillful coordination, cooperation, and interaction with others to make this happen. TTRPGs involve significant personal exploration and growth."
"Throughout any given session, individuals face many challenges and decisions that will have them explore facets of their beliefs, morality, and personal growth."
Trustees were told how students blossomed at Riverside after joining the club, first taking part as introverts than leading game play as they gain more experience.
Students whose first language is not English could also take the course, Riverside teacher Cary Brett said.
"Even those students whose language might be a barrier there are many ways we can get around it we would ensure that would be accounted for," Brett said.
If the program is successful, it could also be expanded to other high schools in the Tri-Cities.
