Dungeons and Dragons - The Lost Mine of Phandelver
This class blends combat, problem-solving, and role-playing in a structured yet flexible setting. With expert guidance, students build teamwork, critical thinking, and storytelling skills while exploring a rich fantasy world.
What's included
1 live meeting
1 hrs 30 mins in-class hours per weekClass Experience
Class Experience: Dungeons & Dragons What will be taught? In this class, students will learn how to play Dungeons & Dragons (D&D), a collaborative tabletop role-playing game that encourages creativity, problem-solving, teamwork, and storytelling. No prior experience is required! What topics will you cover? Introduction to D&D: What is D&D, and how does it work? Character Creation: Students will learn how to create their own unique character using D&D Beyond, including choosing a character's race, class, background, and abilities. Game Rules: Basic rules of D&D, including how to roll dice, combat mechanics, and role-playing. Storytelling and Role-Playing: How to immerse yourself in the game world and make decisions as your character. Teamwork: Working together as a party to solve puzzles, defeat monsters, and complete quests. Online Tools: How to use D&D Beyond for character sheets. How will I teach? Interactive Lessons: Each session will include instruction, discussion, and hands-on gameplay. Visual Aids: Use of images and maps to explain concepts and enhance the experience. Guided Play: I will serve as the Game Master (GM), guiding students through the story and helping them make decisions. What's my teaching style? Engaging and Supportive: I focus on creating a fun, inclusive environment where every student feels comfortable participating. Encouraging Creativity: Students are encouraged to think outside the box and express themselves through their characters. Patient and Clear: I break down complex rules into simple, easy-to-understand steps. How much will learners interact with me? Direct Interaction: Students will interact with me and each other throughout the class. I will be available to answer questions, provide guidance, and help with technical issues. Gameplay: Most of the class time will be spent playing D&D, with students making decisions, rolling dice, and engaging in the story. Additional Details for Parents: Accounts Needed: Students will need to create a free account on D&D Beyond. Parents may need to assist with account setup, especially for younger students. Materials Required: A computer or tablet with internet access. Time Commitment: Each session will run for 90 minutes, with weekly recurring sessions. Trademarked Materials: This class uses official Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) materials under the Open Gaming License (OGL) and the D&D System Reference Document (SRD). These resources provide the foundational rules and content for gameplay. All materials used in this class are age-appropriate and designed for educational and recreational purposes. Why D&D? D&D is more than just a game—it’s a tool for building confidence, creativity, and social skills. Students will learn to collaborate, think critically, and express themselves in a safe, inclusive and imaginative environment.
Learning Goals
Creative Storytelling and Role-Playing
Collaboration and Teamwork
Other Details
Parental Guidance
Content Considerations:
Fantasy Violence: Dungeons & Dragons involves combat and conflict resolution, which may include descriptions of fantasy violence (e.g., fighting monsters, casting spells). However, this is presented in a fictional, non-graphic manner, similar to what you might find in a PG-rated fantasy movie or book.
Themes: The game may include mild suspense, moral dilemmas, or imaginary creatures (e.g., dragons, goblins) that could be unsettling to young or sensitive learners. These elements are handled in a way that is appropriate for students.
Role-Playing: Students will be encouraged to role-play as their characters, which may involve acting out decisions or emotions. This is done in a supportive, age-appropriate environment.
Safety Precautions:
Account Creation: Students will need to create a free account on D&D Beyond. Parents may need to assist with this process, especially for younger learners. No personal information beyond a username and email address is required.
Class Environment: The class will be conducted in a moderated, respectful environment. I will ensure that all interactions remain positive and inclusive.
Comparable Media Rating:
D&D is often compared to PG or PG-13 fantasy movies or books, such as:
PG Examples: The Hobbit, How to Train Your Dragon, or Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.
PG-13 Examples: The Lord of the Rings, Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves, or Stranger Things (which features D&D prominently).
Third-Party Tools:
D&D Beyond: Used for character creation and management. A free account is required.
Class Content Policy:
This class adheres to Outschool's content policy, ensuring a safe, inclusive, and respectful learning environment for all students. If you have any concerns about the content or tools used in this class, please feel free to reach out to me directly.
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Sources
Pre-Class Preparation
To ensure students get the most out of this class, it’s recommended that they spend 0-2 hours per week between sessions reviewing their character sheet and brushing up on basic D&D rules. This will help them feel more confident and engaged during gameplay. Here’s what students can do to prepare:
Review Basic Rules: Familiarize yourself with core concepts like ability scores, skill checks, combat mechanics, and how to roll dice.
Explore Your Character: Spend time understanding your character’s abilities, spells, and equipment. This will make it easier to make decisions during the game.
Practice Using Tools: If you’re new to D&D Beyond, take some time to explore this platform and learn how to navigate it.
Free Online Resources:
Basic Rules PDF: The official D&D Basic Rules are available for free on the D&D Beyond website. This is a great starting point for learning the game.
D&D Beyond Tutorials: Video tutorials and guides on how to use D&D Beyond for character creation and gameplay.
Teacher expertise and credentials
Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration and Management from Clemson University
I have been playing tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs), including Dungeons & Dragons, since I was a child. Over the years, I’ve developed a deep passion for collaborative storytelling, creative problem-solving, and the unique social dynamics that these games foster.
Game Master Experience: I have been a Game Master (GM) for over a decade, running campaigns for players of all ages and skill levels. I specialize in creating engaging, immersive adventures that balance combat, exploration, and role-playing.
I have extensive experience working with children and teens in a variety of roles:
Coaching youth sports, including softball and volleyball.
Working at the YMCA, where I coached T-ball and facilitated recreational activities.
Serving as a co-leader for my daughter's Girl Scout troop, helping young learners develop teamwork, leadership, and life skills.
As a father of six children, I have firsthand experience nurturing creativity, patience, and a love of learning in young minds.
My teaching style is patient, encouraging, and adaptable. I focus on meeting students where they are, whether they’re completely new to D&D or have some experience under their belt. I believe that TTRPGs are not just games—they’re powerful tools for learning, self-expression, and connection.
Reviews
Live Group Class
$50
weekly1x per week
90 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 11-16
4-7 learners per class