Connected Learning Summit 2019

This symposium explores the diverse learning pathways and movements different players take around the tabletop roleplaying game Dungeons & Dragons (D&D). We utilize a conceptual framework we call distributed teaching and learning systems (DTALS) which complements and extends the Connected Learning framework by emphasizing the range of designed and emergent teaching resources learners encounter around complex problem spaces like D&D, and how movement across these contexts (sites, people, time) is crucial in understanding the deep and uniquely shaped learning that occurs for different learners. During the session, we will include audience participants in a streamlined D&D play session to highlight multiple perspectives for analysis and to highlight key features of the DTALS framework, including how the game master and players negotiate and customize learning pathways to fit their specific needs and interests. The session design includes the use of designed teaching resources (game manuals, game master knowledge) and “planted” resources that player-participants may discover; we will also invite them to utilize tools and resources at their disposal (internet browsers, Twitter, other audience members, etc.). Each of these resources connect to the D&D activity and form a network of people and things that participants may (or may not) use, uniquely shaped and enacted for each player. Ultimately, this session will highlight the role of learners as co-designers and the critical but often underexamined role of teaching across contexts in order to expand the important insights of the Connected Learning research agenda.