Examining play-based approaches to teaching and learning in early childhood education and care

Play-based learning is an important part of early childhood education. This project examines how approaches to play-based learning influence teacher planning and what children learn from play. Three types of play, including open-ended play, modelled-play and conceptually-sustaining play will be examined. Topics related to biodiversity, such as animal habitats, will be examined to see how children learn through the different play types. The work is significant because research suggests children need more than open-ended play to support conceptual learning. The project outcomes are focussed on developing a sophisticated understanding of how play-based approaches support teaching and learning in early childhood education.