Outschool
Open currency, time zone, and language settings
Log In

Learn How to Dungeon Master! Running the Game - Dungeons & Dragons

This course introduces you to the art and science of running a tabletop roleplaying game. Develop essential DM skills including storytelling, improvisation, and player engagement while learning to create unforgettable gaming experiences!
Bloom Academy
Average rating:
4.8
Number of reviews:
(46)
Class
Play

What's included

8 live meetings
8 in-class hours
Homework
1-2 hours per week. 1-2 per week
Assessment
included

Class Experience

Welcome to 'Running The Game: Being A Dungeon Master!' An intermediate-level course designed to transform passionate players into confident and capable Dungeon Masters.

In this weekly seminar, participants will dive deep into the multifaceted role of the DM, exploring both the mechanical and creative aspects of running a successful TTRPG campaign.

As your instructor and experienced DM, I'll guide you through the essential skills and techniques that form the foundation of great game mastery. We'll cover topics such as:

1. Rules mastery and fair adjudication
2. Storytelling and world-building
3. NPC creation and roleplaying
4. Encounter design and balancing
5. Improvisation and adapting to player choices
6. Managing group dynamics and player expectations
7. Using digital tools to enhance gameplay

Each session will blend theory with practical exercises, allowing students to immediately apply what they've learned. The 1-hour "homework" assignments will involve preparation for the next class, such as creating NPCs, designing encounters, or outlining story arcs.

This course offers a unique blend of creative and analytical thinking. Students will enhance their communication skills, develop their improvisational abilities, and learn to think on their feet. They'll also delve into the art of collaborative storytelling, balancing player agency with narrative structure.

"Running The Game" is crafted to challenge intermediate D&D players while remaining accessible to those new to the DM role. Each session builds upon the last, gradually increasing in complexity as students gain confidence and skill.

New students can join at any time, as each session is designed to be both self-contained and part of a larger curriculum.

Parents can expect their children to develop enhanced leadership skills, improved narrative crafting abilities, and a deeper understanding of game design principles. This course isn't just about running D&D – it's about fostering creativity, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills that will benefit students in many areas of life.

Join us on this exciting journey into the art of Dungeon Mastering, and unlock your potential to create unforgettable adventures for players around your table!
Learning Goals
1. Develop the ability to create and run engaging, balanced, and enjoyable D&D sessions that cater to various player preferences and play styles.
2. Master the core rules of D&D 5e and learn to make fair, consistent rulings that enhance rather than hinder gameplay.
learning goal

Syllabus

8 Lessons
over 8 Weeks
Lesson 1:
Introduction to Dungeon Mastering
 • Role of the DM
  • Basic rules overview
  • Session preparation basics 
60 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
NPC Creation and Roleplaying
 • Designing memorable characters
  • Improvisation techniques
  • Voice acting and character portrayal 
60 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
NPC Creation and Roleplaying
 • Designing memorable characters
  • Improvisation techniques
  • Voice acting and character portrayal 
60 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Encounter Design and Balancing
 • Creating challenging and fun combat scenarios
  • Balancing encounters for different party sizes and levels
  • Incorporating puzzles and skill challenges 
60 mins online live lesson

Other Details

Supply List
Optional: The Dungeons and Dragons 5th Edition Player's handbook. A set of TTRPG dice set consisting of a d20, d12, d10, d8, d6, d4.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined March, 2021
4.8
46reviews
Profile
Teacher expertise and credentials
Master's Degree in Physics from York University
Mr. Romeo
Master's Degree in Biology/Biological Sciences from University of Calgary
Vicki Tran
Bachelor's Degree in Music from University of Western Ontario
Diana Alecu
Bachelor's Degree in Music from Berklee College of Music
Nicole Demers
Bachelor's Degree in Biology/Biological Sciences from York University
Mr. Romeo
Associate's Degree in Music from The Royal Conservatory of Music Canada
Diana Alecu
Hi Everyone, I'm Johnathon, and I'm thrilled to introduce myself as your Dungeon Master for our upcoming D&D adventures! 

I've been immersed in the world of Dungeons & Dragons for over a decade, with more than eight years of experience running campaigns as a DM. My passion for this game goes beyond just rolling dice and battling monsters – I see D&D as a powerful tool for creativity, learning, and personal growth.

Over the years, I've guided players through a diverse array of campaigns, from classic published modules like Waterdeep Dragon Heist and Curse of Strahd to my own homebrew creations. My longest-running campaign, "Journey in Janaxar," blends elements of western, cyberpunk, and classic fantasy into a unique world that my players and I have crafted together.

As your DM, I'm committed to creating an inclusive and engaging environment where everyone feels empowered to express themselves and contribute to our shared story. I believe in the power of player agency and love seeing how your choices and actions shape the narrative we build together.

To enhance our gaming experience, I utilize a variety of digital tools. We'll be using Roll20 for our online battlemaps, DnDBeyond for character creation and management, and Inkarnate for creating those all-important world maps. 

But D&D is more than just a game to me – it's a way to foster teamwork, critical thinking, and imaginative storytelling. Through our adventures, we'll explore complex themes, tackle challenging puzzles, and engage in discussions about ethics and morality. I'm excited to see how you'll develop your problem-solving skills, grow in confidence, and forge lasting friendships along the way.

Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the world of D&D, I'm here to ensure you have an amazing time. I'm always open to feedback and love tailoring our campaigns to suit the group's interests and dynamics.

So, grab your dice, prepare your spells, and let's set out on an unforgettable journey together. I can't wait to see what incredible stories we'll create and what heroic deeds you'll accomplish. Welcome to our D&D table – let the adventure begin!

Reviews

Live Group Course
Share

$20

weekly or $160 for 8 classes
1x per week, 8 weeks
60 min

Live video meetings
Ages: 11-16
3-6 learners per class

About
Support
SafetyPrivacyCA PrivacyLearner PrivacyManage Data PreferencesTerms
Financial Assistance
Get The App
Download on the App StoreGet it on Google Play
© 2024 Outschool