MAPP15 - IfE

MAPP15
Promoting Playful Learning

MQF Level: 7

ECTS Value: 5 ECTS

Self Study Hours: 60

Duration: 10 Sessions

Contact Hours: 25

Mode of Delivery: Blended

Assessment Hours: 40

Entry Requirements

Applicants applying for the module are to be in possession of one of the following:

a. A Bachelor’s degree in Education (MQF Level 6 with a minimum of 180 ECTS, or equivalent) together with relevant experience in an educational setting;

b. A Bachelor’s degree (MQF Level 6 with a minimum of 180 ECTS, or equivalent) and PGCE (or equivalent) together with relevant experience in an educational setting;

c. A Bachelor’s degree in Inclusive Education (MQF Level 6 with a minimum of 180 ECTS, or equivalent) together with 3 years’ relevant experience in an educational setting;

d. A Master’s Degree (MQF Level 7 with a minimum of 90 ECTS, or equivalent) and a Permanent Teacher’s Warrant together with relevant experience in an educational setting

Overall Objectives and Outcomes

Playing and being creative are crucial aspects of a child’s development and learning process. This module is designed to delve into the concept of playful learning as a pedagogy for effective teaching and learning. Its primary goal is to cultivate a shared understanding of play and its impact on pedagogical practices and how it enhances children’s learning experiences.

By the end of this module, the learner will be able to:

Competences

Implement different play approaches to develop engaging and developmentally appropriate learning environments;
Critically evaluate the role of play in children’s development and learning, considering current educational, contexts, research, and debates.;
Design and implement differentiated play-based activities that cater to diverse learning needs and abilities;
Integrate indoor and outdoor learning experiences to foster creativity, exploration, and holistic development;
Systematically observe the children’s play to identify their strengths, needs and interests, informing instructional decisions.

Knowledge

Identify different types of play and schemas, evaluating their role in cognitive, social, and emotional development.;
Analyse the practicalities, benefits, and challenges associated with play-based approaches in educational settings;
Describe child development from different theoretical perspectives that are relevant when designing learning experiences;
Identify and review the key indicators of learning, and developmental progress through systematic observation and assessment;
Explain the importance of integrating indoor and outdoor learning experiences for holistic child development;
Discuss the ethical and professional responsibilities involved in observing and assessing children’s play;
Discuss the steps involved in observing children to support and extend learning through play.

Skills

Apply theoretical knowledge to design and adapt play-based activities that align with curriculum objectives;
Translate observations of children’s play into actionable teaching plans, by aligning activities with observed student needs;
Show proficiency in organising activities that combine both indoor and outdoor learning experiences;
Develop scaffolding strategies to extend children’s learning through play and inquiry-based approaches.

Assessment Methods

This module will be assessed through: Assignment; Observation; Activity.