Language, Literacy, and Sociocultural Studies ETDs

Publication Date

Spring 5-2026

Abstract

This phenomenological qualitative study explored the use of the Dungeons and Dragons (D&D) Role-Playing Game as a Game-Based Learning (GBL) model, measuring middle school student perceptions of engagement, motivation, and skill development through interactive storytelling. The study used a Practitioner Research theoretical framework and Thematic Analysis to identify emergent themes from the collected data. The study included gameplay of D&D after school with a small group of participants grades 6-8. Results indicated that participants reported consistently high levels of motivation and engagement. Participants perceived that D&D gameplay promoted the development of 21st Century Skills and middle school curricula skills, specifically noting growth in collaboration, communication, creative problem-solving, negotiation, and numeracy. Although highly effective for the participants, students expressed concerns about implementing the activity in mandatory content-area classes due to issues like large class size and varying student interest. The study concludes that D&D as GBL is a useful learner-engagement strategy best suited for implementation as an elective or after-school program, where student choice is prioritized. Limitations include the small sample size, competition from other after-school activities, and the considerable preparation and prior gaming experience required by the teacher.

Keywords

Gamification, Game-Based Learning, Middle School, Dungeons and Dragons, D&D, TTRPG, Student Motivation, Student Engagement, Intervention, After-School

Document Type

Dissertation

Language

English

Degree Name

Educational Linguistics

Level of Degree

Doctoral

Department Name

Language, Literacy, and Sociocultural Studies

First Committee Member (Chair)

Dr. Pisarn Bee Chamcharatsri

Second Committee Member

Dr. Carlos López-Leiva

Third Committee Member

Dr. Leslie Donovan

Fourth Committee Member

Dr. Christopher Holden

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