Playful Pedagogies: Critical thinking, Creativity, Constructing Meaning

Podcast Description

In this special extended edition of the Oxford Education Deanery podcast, Professor Kathy Hirsh-Pasek joins Dr Faidra Faitaki and Jasen Booton to explore how playful pedagogies can transform education. Beginning with a light-hearted exchange about climbing trees and jumping in puddles, the conversation unfolds into a compelling discussion of “active, playful learning” (or guided play) — a research-informed approach grounded in how brains learn best: actively, meaningfully, socially, iteratively, and with joy. Challenging the divide between play and more traditional approaches, the speakers reflect on classroom practice, bilingualism, inclusion, creativity, and the urgent need to rethink schooling in an age of rapid technological change. Moving beyond the classroom to playful public spaces and global initiatives, the episode offers a hopeful vision of education that nurtures curiosity, critical thinking, and confident, connected citizens for the future.

Find out more about the Playful Pedagogies event, and book your ticket at https://www.education.ox.ac.uk/oxford-education-deanery/event/playful-pedagogies-critical-thinking-creativity-constructing-meaning/

Learn more about the Oxford Education Deanery: https://www.education.ox.ac.uk/about-us/oxford-education-deanery/

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