S2 E3 | Play to Learn with Peter Gray
Play and learning is seen as being at odds with each other in our society. In school there is play/recess time and then there was be-quiet-and-sit-in-your-seats learning time. Since the 1950’s there has been a decline in play for kids at school and at home and one might think that this is a good thing.
Dr. Peter Gray sees it a different way. In his book Free to Learn he talks about the conditions in which kids need to learn and this one is my favorite: unlimited time to play and explore. He talks about his own experience taking his son out of the traditional schooling system and a concept called self-directed education. After watching his Tedx talk and reading Free to Learn I knew I had to have Dr. Gray on to to talk more about play and learning.
We talk about:
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The conditions kids need in order to learn best
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Why self- directed learning is the best way that kids learn
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Why screens and devices should NOT be looked upon negatively or taken away from kids
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The consequences of a society where play continues to be on the decline
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Why it’s important to always do what you love
Mentioned in this episode and resources from today’s episode
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Free to Learn by Peter Gray
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Peter’s blog on Psychology Today
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Sudbury School overview
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ARTICLE: Pat-Med Debuts Before School Play Program
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ARTICLE: Long Island School District Considers No-Homework Policy For Elementary School Kids
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Michael Hynes’ Tedx Talk: Why PEAS are the Key to a Successful Education
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Peter’s Tedx Talk: The Decline of Play
Where to listen:
