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Play-Based Learning and the Play Cycle: A Consideration of the Adult Role in the Process of Play

Peter King Orcid Logo

American Journal of Play, Volume: 17, Issue: 3, Pages: 309 - 324

Swansea University Author: Peter King Orcid Logo

Abstract

The author looks at play-based learning as a concept that supports the holisticdevelopment of children, defining such learning as a continuum of a childdirected, collaborative, and adult-directed play and discussing the role ofadults on this continuum. King introduces into the discussion the theory...

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Published in: American Journal of Play
Published: 2025
Online Access: https://www.museumofplay.org/app/uploads/2025/10/AJP-17-3-Article-2-Play-Circle.pdf
URI: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa70655
Abstract: The author looks at play-based learning as a concept that supports the holisticdevelopment of children, defining such learning as a continuum of a childdirected, collaborative, and adult-directed play and discussing the role ofadults on this continuum. King introduces into the discussion the theory ofthe play cycle and reviews tensions in play-based learning between policy,practice, and the interpretation of play, using the play cycle and adult rolesin it to focus on the process of play rather than on its outcomes, which alsocontributes to a developing understanding of play-based learning itself. Keywords: adult role in play; play-based learning; play cycle; play cycle observation method; playwork
College: Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences
Issue: 3
Start Page: 309
End Page: 324