For this episode I'm joined by Sam Cheung, known online as the Educational DM, who takes us through his years of experience in the educational and pastoral applications of Dungeons & Dragons. We discuss the various ways players can learn through D&D, for students and new players alike. Although the obvious challenges are arithmetic and creativity, Sam and I investigate the deeper ways players can improve themselves while playing. Questioning why the Queen wants you to despatch those "bandits", that is to say, who is most likely to benefit from this task, can help players strengthen that vitally important ability to think critically. Likewise, finding space between the bombast to build those social relationships can be a useful training ground for many, allowing them a trustable arena to migrate out of their comfort zones. After everything, of course, the real treasure was the friends we made along the way! 03:26 - Exploring Education Through D&D 10:55 - How Design Promotes Learning 39:51 - Building Trust 45:44 - Educating New Players Find Sam on: Website: https://sites.google.com/view/educationaldm/home Twitter: https://twitter.com/DmEducational Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dmeducate/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DmEducational YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNObiWbwQzha7KxmAwpZdPQ Dump Stat Adventures: https://dumpstatadventures.com/guest-writers Find me on: Website: https://www.thinkingcritically.co.uk Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThinkCritDnD Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thinking_critically_dnd/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThinkingCriticallyDnD YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCH_BSgazjwyshzo1jazHeaQ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thinkingcritically Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/thinkingcritically References: Game to Grow 'Inspirisles' by Hatchlings Games 'Wanderhome' by Possum Creek Games Dr. Megan Connell on Dragon Talk Patrons: Matt Street @mpstreet88: https://www.virtualtimehustle.com/ Intro Music: 'Local Forecast' by Kevin MacLeod Intermission Music: 'Chill' by Kevin MacLeod Outro Music: 'Local Forecast - Elevator' by Kevin MacLeod