Ep. 5: Bringing Joy, Rigor, and Storytelling to the Classroom with TTRPGs, feat. Adam Watson & Kalli Colley

SummaryIn this episode of the inkED Education Podcast, Dr. Rob Collins engages with Adam Watson and Kalli Colley to explore the integration of tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) in education. They discuss the power of storytelling, personal experiences with TTRPGs, and how these games can create vibrant learning experiences that foster student agency and engagement. The conversation delves into practical strategies for implementing TTRPGs in the classroom, the distinction between game-based learning and gamification, and the importance of play in education. They also share insights on assessment, mastery, and the future of TTRPGs in educational settings.TakeawaysTTRPGs are a form of collaborative storytelling.Storytelling is central to the TTRPG experience.Implementing TTRPGs can enhance student engagement.Play is essential for learning and development.TTRPGs can help build student agency and decision-making skills.Teachers can start small when integrating TTRPGs into their classrooms.Game-based learning differs from gamification in meaningful ways.The joy of play can revitalize both students and educators.About the GuestsAdam Watson is a former teacher, district coach, founder of Kentucky Educators for Role Playing Games (KYEdRPG) and current Digital Learning Consultant with a Kentucky Educational Cooperative supporting educators serving over 150,000 students and author of the recently released "Tabletop Role-Playing Games in the Classroom: Infusing Gameplay Into K-12 Instruction." Adam's book can be purchased at fine book retailers everywhere! Kalli Colley is a former middle grades English and Social Studies teacher and Kentucky Innovative Teacher Fellowship Alumna from Western Kentucky. She currently serves as a Regional Innovation Specialist with the Kentucky Department of Education supporting educators, administrators, and others in the development of classroom learning systems that promote and facilitate vibrant learning experiences for all students.