It’s Time to Roll with Polyhedral Pedagogy
It’s Time to Roll with Polyhedral Pedagogy
It’s Time to Roll with Polyhedral Pedagogy
Adam Watson
January, 08, 2026
Summary
Tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs), especially Dungeons & Dragons, are transforming classroom learning through immersive, collaborative storytelling. At Western High School in Kentucky, teacher Sterling Harris integrates D&D into creative writing, blending gameplay with rigorous academic standards. This “Polyhedral Pedagogy” fosters literacy, engagement, social-emotional learning, and durable skills like collaboration, resilience, and empathy. Supported by school leadership and aligned with Kentucky’s Vibrant Learning initiatives, TTRPGs create meaningful, student-centered experiences that encourage risk-taking and reflection. Research and professional development efforts further validate their impact. By merging imagination with pedagogy, TTRPGs offer an innovative, joyful pathway to deeper learning and authentic student growth.
Reference
Watson, A. (2026, January 8). It’s time to roll with polyhedral pedagogy. Next Generation Learning Challenges. https://www.nextgenlearning.org/articles/polyhedral-pedagogy-tabletop-role-playing-games-education