This session explores an online pilot course in leadership and soft skill development using Dungeons and Dragons, a popular role-playing game (RPG) to engage adult professional learners. By using an RPG as a foundational context, this course offers an innovative educational experience and engages participants to apply the knowledge and skills they have gained in a meaningful context. The pilot used both game-based learning and gamification as a foundation.

This methodology focuses on motivating learners to develop new skill sets, change behaviors, or drive innovation via tangential and experiential learning through interaction with other “players” in a familiar RPG game context. When applied effectively, gamification offers a substantial opportunity to develop new and original professional development programs while keeping learners motivated and engaged.