Posted: February 7th, 2024

Play Based Learning

Play Based Learning: A Review of the Literature

Play based learning is a pedagogical approach that emphasizes the role of play in children’s development and learning. Play based learning can be defined as “a context for learning through which children organize and make sense of their social worlds, as they engage actively with people, objects and representations” (DEEWR, 2009, p. 5). Play based learning can take various forms, such as free play, guided play, games, simulations, and role play. Play based learning can foster various skills and competencies, such as creativity, problem solving, communication, collaboration, self-regulation, and metacognition.

The benefits of play based learning have been supported by various theoretical perspectives and empirical studies. Some of the prominent theories that underpin play based learning are Piaget’s cognitive development theory, Vygotsky’s sociocultural theory, Bruner’s constructivist theory, and Papert’s constructionist theory. These theories suggest that play is a natural and effective way for children to construct their own knowledge and understanding of the world, through active exploration, experimentation, and social interaction. Play also provides opportunities for children to express their emotions, imagination, and identity, as well as to cope with challenges and conflicts.

Several studies have shown that play based learning can have positive effects on children’s academic outcomes, such as literacy, numeracy, science, and language skills. For example, a meta-analysis by Lillard et al. (2013) found that children who participated in play based preschool programs performed better than those who attended more academic-oriented programs on measures of cognitive skills, language development, and academic achievement. Similarly, a longitudinal study by Weisberg et al. (2016: 2024 – Do my homework – Help write my assignment online) found that children who engaged in more guided play activities in kindergarten showed higher levels of reading comprehension and mathematics skills in third grade than those who engaged in less guided play activities.

Play based learning can also enhance children’s social and emotional development, such as self-esteem, empathy, resilience, and prosocial behavior. For instance, a study by Hirsh-Pasek et al. (2015 – Research Paper Writing Help Service) found that children who played with peers in a playful setting showed higher levels of social competence and emotional regulation than those who played alone or in a structured setting. Moreover, a study by Whitebread et al. (2017) found that children who participated in a play based intervention program showed significant improvements in their self-regulation skills and executive functions compared to those who received a traditional curriculum.

In conclusion, play based learning is a valuable and effective approach for supporting children’s holistic development and learning across various domains. Play based learning can foster children’s cognitive, linguistic, social, emotional, and physical skills and competencies through engaging and meaningful experiences. Play based learning can also promote children’s motivation, curiosity, and joy of learning.

Help write my assignment – Bibliography

DEEWR (2009) Belonging, Being & Becoming: The Early Years Learning Framework for Australia. Canberra: Commonwealth of Australia.

Hirsh-Pasek K., Zosh J.M., Golinkoff R.M., Gray J.H., Robb M.B., Kaufman J. (2015 – Research Paper Writing Help Service) Putting education in ‘educational’ apps: lessons from the science of learning. Psychological Science in the Public Interest 16(1): 3-34.

Lillard A.S., Lerner M.D., Hopkins E.J., Dore R.A., Smith E.D., Palmquist C.M. (2013) The impact of pretend play on children’s development: a review of the evidence. Psychological Bulletin 139(1): 1-34.

Weisberg D.S., Hirsh-Pasek K., Golinkoff R.M., Kittredge A.K., Klahr D. (2016: 2024 – Do my homework – Help write my assignment online) Guided play: principles and practices. help write my dissertation on Current Directions in Psychological Science 25(3): 177-182.

Whitebread D., Neale D., Jensen H., Liu C., Solis S.L., Hopkins E., Hirsh-Pasek K., Zosh J.M. (2017) The role of play in children’s development: a review of the evidence (research summary). The LEGO Foundation.

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