Michael M. Patte, Ph.D. is Associate Professor of Education at Bloomsburg University. Prior to making the transition to higher education, Michael was an elementary school teacher for ten years. During this time, he realized that play was viewed as frivolous, impractical, and unproductive and pushed to the periphery of the curriculum. He now teaches students to become teachers (PreK through 12th grade).
Description
This session explores the dilemma faced by many teachers who are mandated to deliver a standardized curriculum but at the same time want to maintain room for child-initiated activity. Through examining three useful models, a compelling argument is made that aspects of both work and play can be infused into an appropriate pedagogy for children that breaks down the age old “child-centered versus teacher-directed learning” debate.