Resources

On 13 July 2024, our NIEC (NP) Course Chair, Foo Wan Yueh, wrote an article discussing the concept of play-based learning and its challenges in educational settings in Singapore. Referencing philosophers like Plato and educators such as Chen Heqin, as well as the UN Convention on the Rights of Children, Mrs Wan Yueh highlights that while many educators recognise the benefits of play for children’s learning, practical concerns like safety, hygiene, and educational relevance often hinder its implementation. In fact, there is a tendency among parents and teachers to view play and learning as opposites, using playtime as a reward or punishment.

Furthermore, Mrs Wan Yueh shares about Harvard’s Project Zero, which supports the “Pedagogy of Play” and demonstrates that playful learning enhances student engagement and deepens learning effects. Defined as enjoyable, meaningful, and imaginative engagement that children willingly participate in, play contrasts with structured educational toys that may not foster true play. Wan Yueh calls for parents and teachers of young children in Singapore to adopt a playful mindset to facilitate optimal learning experiences through play.