ED 310 - The Power of Play in the Classroom

This course explores the cognitive, social, emotional, physical, and creative benefits of play in the early childhood and elementary classroom. Through interactive learning experiences, readings, and discussions, students examine the nature of play, its disappearance in our schools, and its importance in the development of the whole child. Students develop a rationale for play as a fundamental component of the curriculum, design developmentally appropriate learning environments, and create play-based learning experiences. Students explore the teacher’s role in observing, facilitating, and assessing play. Inclusive play-based intervention strategies for children with developmental delays will be addressed.

(Cr: 3)