Making schools work: An equation for active playful learning
Date
2023-05-15
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Theory Into Practice
Abstract
Research from the interdisciplinary science of learning indicates that children learn best when they are actively engaged in learning that is meaningful, socially interactive, iterative, and joyful. These principles coalesce in active playful learning, especially guided play. This active, playful pedagogy enhances learning through intentional instruction that activates students’ autonomy and intrinsic motivation while teachers guide them toward a learning goal. In this paper, we provide a framework for facilitating guided play through a 3-part equation of incorporation of cultural values, the science of how children learn, and the science of what children need to learn to thrive in school and beyond. A summary of the research supporting the efficacy of this approach is provided, as are recommendations for how to implement the equation through guided play in our schools.
Description
This article was originally published in Theory Into Practice. The version of record is available at: https://doi.org/10.1080/00405841.2023.2202136. © 2023 The Author(s). Published with license by Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.
Keywords
Citation
Kimberly T. Nesbitt, Elias Blinkoff, Roberta Michnick Golinkoff & Kathy Hirsh-Pasek (2023) Making schools work: An equation for active playful learning, Theory Into Practice, 62:2, 141-154, DOI: 10.1080/00405841.2023.2202136