Dungeons and Dragons is more than just a game it is a method of escapism into a creative world that nourishes the development of beneficial skills needed throughout life. Many people know of D&D, but how many of us really understand the beauty of the game?
At its core, D&D is a tabletop game designed to encourage critical thinking and adaptability in its players. Whilst the success of a player’s actions is ultimately up to the randomness of the dice cast; the player’s decisions can result in life-or-death situations and change their fate and the way the game is played. With a massive variety in play styles, class features and races, as well as different backgrounds, the possibilities are endless and no game is even remotely the same.
At our Bath Academy D&D Club, students enjoy many ridiculous situations which would otherwise be considered impossible/improbable in the real world. The whole group has to listen and pay attention to the story line and what challenges they face along the way. The need for attentiveness and teamwork in the game improves student’s active listening and social skills, as well as memory and critical thinking.
The benefits of playing such game are known even in the professional world. Actors such as Hugh Grant have been able to secure roles in certain movies due to the passion for the game. “I’ve been an enthusiastic Dungeon Master for some years now. I believe that’s why [the directors] thought of me for this film”.
Unlike with computer games where the boundaries of the world are fixed, with decisions and variability kept minimal and rigid; In D&D, a player can decide to do ANYTHING they want, the only limit is set by the difficulty of the task they want to undertake. According to a recent study, such realms of creativity of D&D can help students develop their SEL (Social and Emotional Learning) skills. SEL skills include self-awareness, self-management, responsible decision-making, relationship skills and social awareness.
Chris Pine mentioned in an interview, “I think a D&D class at schools would be so beneficial. You ask people to sit down together, and even if they have nothing else in common, it’s virtually impossible not to get sucked into the fun of the game.”
External events which are out of our control, stress around exams or other personal matter can affect students wellbeing and the ability to escape reality, just for a short while, and delve into a mystical land is something that has helped many improve their mental health. There comes a time when the news is better turned off, phones put away, curtains closed and new adventures begin among friends, food, and a good atmosphere.
At Bath Academy we care for each students well being and understand the importance of fun outside their studies. D&D Club takes part every year at Bath Academy and not only is it beneficial in so many ways for student development but more importantly it is enjoyable and students always find like-minded people and have a good time! You are able to hear the excitement and laughter from a mile off of our D&D Club and we are so happy that we have been able to make such a positive influence to our students’ memories of school! All students are encouraged to attend D&D Club on Mondays between 5pm-8pm at Thirsty Meeples, or find similar passions whether it is; sport, games, music, or art – the important thing is to remember to take time for yourself and do what makes you happy.
https://ew.com/events/comic-con/dungeons-dragons-hugh-grant-dungeon-master-comic-con-2022/
https://ew.com/events/comic-con/dungeons-dragons-honor-among-thieves-cast-preview-comic-con-2022/