What is LARP
A live action role-playing game (LARP) is a form of role-playing game where the participants physically portray their characters.[1] The players pursue goals within a fictional setting represented by real-world environments while interacting with each other in character. The outcome of player actions may be mediated by game rules or determined by consensus among players. Larp can be used to help people create authentic experiences.
How does Larp promote learning?
“Learning through LARP Learn how to use techniques from Live Action Roleplay (LARP) to help staff develop skills in communication, problem/solving, task-completion, group cohesion, teamwork, and more.”
“Larping provides children an authentic way to create real experiences and interactions.”
— feedback from August 2018 workshop.
Our approach
Tom has explored LARP as an education device and provided dozens of educators with the tools to incorporate LARP into the classroom setting. Examples of LARP experiences:
- Language Immersion: LARPs can be conducted entirely in a native language to develop communication skills.
- Conflict Resolution and Diplomacy: Participants take on the roles of diplomats, politicians, or leaders of fictional nations or factions. They negotiate treaties, resolve disputes, and manage conflicts, learning about diplomacy, negotiation skills, and international relations.
- Cultural Sensitivity and Diversity: LARPs can be designed to explore issues of cultural diversity, prejudice, and social justice. Participants take on roles from diverse backgrounds and perspectives, fostering empathy, understanding, and dialogue.
- Empathy Building: LARPing allows participants to step into the shoes of different characters, experiencing their thoughts, feelings, and perspectives. This can help at-risk teens develop empathy by understanding the motivations and emotions of others, which can improve their interpersonal relationships both in and out of the game.
Thomas L. Rocap 