Parents’ perspectives on play-based learning in a Year 1 classroom

Abstract

The purpose of this research study seeks to explore parents’ perspectives about play-based learning in Year 1 classrooms in Malta. This study is guided by two research questions; (1) How do parents view play-based learning in a Year 1 classroom? (2) Do parents link play to learning in Year 1? Data collection consisted of an online questionnaire which was distributed through social media. This was designed to collect and analyse parents’ perspectives on play-based learning. One hundred and thirty-seven parents whose children are currently in Year 1 participated in this research study. Findings of this study showed how parents view play differently from each other and how they believed that play was important for children’s learning and development as it helps them become more engaged and motivated towards their learning. The theories guiding this study include Piaget, Vyogtsky and Tina Bruce as they show the importance of giving play-based opportunities as learning experiences to children. This study hopes to give parents more knowledge about the importance of play-based learning eventually becoming more receptive to this type of learning. Educators would also be able to pass on knowledge about play-based learning to help parents familiarise themselves with this approach in the hope of being able to implement it also at home.