I am finding research to be very challenging
so far. My study has to do with the connection between the developmentally
appropriate practice of play-based learning and the early learning standards as
well as the issue of pre-service teachers; how are they being prepared for
employment and are they receiving training in how to implement DAP that include
play to meet these standards.
I have spent the last several years primarily
in secondary education (and anticipate returning to either high school or
community college after graduation) and I really would like to improve
strategies for teaching pre-service teachers – and even future parents – in the
importance of play and how it can be effectively implemented to prepare
children for school and a lifetime of learning. Too often I have students who
just want to do worksheets or “cookie cutter” projects with children; they look
at the standards and all they see are direct instruction. I suppose this has to
do with the mindset of “this is how I am taught, that must be the only way to
do it” or that many of the students that I have in my classrooms either don’t
remember how to play or they never really had a chance to do so as a child in
the first place so they cannot relate the concepts of learning and play-based
activities. I try to incorporate play into my classroom whenever I can, but I
know I fall short. 
That said, I would like to find strategies to
improve teaching that will ultimately make a huge impact on learner and teacher
alike. Unfortunately, this is a tall order for the 6 weeks left in this course.
Fortunately, it is a challenge that I look forward to – even if I make a small
impact it will be worth it. But where do I start? I am really struggling trying
to narrow down my topic to one workable question. Do I focus on how play is
viewed as an instructional tool, what resources are available to assist in the
planning and facilitation of play-based learning, or how play relates to the
current standards? I even considered
looking into the strategies that instructors currently use to teach this
concept to pre-service teachers. I just feel lost and overwhelmed already!
Tomorrow will be a better day…
Laura, thanks for sharing about your topic and what your expectations are. I too must say that it is a challenge but once we can get our thoughts together focusing one major question or point things will start to flow more smoothly. Again thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteLaura,
ReplyDeleteI think its great that you are determined to find strategies to improve teaching and make a huge impact on learning and teaching.So many teachers are used to teaching their way , which can sometimes fall in line with the "TRADITIONAL" style of teaching. This generation calls for so much more, Children are beginning to learn in many different ways. Don't feel lost or overwhelmed, you are off to an amazing start.Play is an option. Play is a different but an effective and exciting way to learn. Ill be keeping up with you along the way. Stay encouraged! :)