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1 Introduction to play-based approaches

Key ideas

  • Play-based learning impacts student’s learning outcomes
  • Teachers facilitate and guide student’s learning outcomes in play-based approaches
  • Teachers take on multiple roles in play-based approaches

This chapter aims to deepen your understanding about the nature of play-based approaches from an educational perspective. It lays the framework for how play-based teaching supports students’ learning, wellbeing, and social skills. By the end of the chapter, teachers will see the potential of play-based approaches in relation to authentic assessment in the classroom.

Keep in mind

Play the below engaging with this chapter vodcast (1:29). As you listen to this chapter’s introductory information, don’t forget that all teaching is contextualised and is made meaningful through the unique application of strategies to different educational settings.

Encountering theory and practice provides opportunities for you to evaluate and add to your pedagogical skills. As you move through this chapter, consider links between play-based learning concepts, theory, and your own practices. When engaging in reflective practice as you move through the chapter, we encourage you to capture in some form your thoughts and considerations.

Engaging with chapter one vodcast (1:29)

License

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Play-based teaching approaches Copyright © 2025 by Deakin University is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License, except where otherwise noted.