Shifting Schools: Conversations for K12 Educators

348: How do you define 'play'?

Jul 22, 2024

Dr. Paul Davarsi, an expert in play and learning, discusses the importance of play for all ages, the impact of efficiency on play, and the benefits of incorporating games into education. He emphasizes breaking routines, embracing playfulness, and advocating for innovative teaching methods.

30:02

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Episode guests

Paul Davarsi

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Play is essential for adults too, offering cognitive and social benefits beyond childhood.

Interactivity in education enhances learning, emphasizing game-based approaches and student-centered projects.

Deep dives

Importance of Play for All Ages

Play isn't just for kids; it's a vital component of how adults should engage with the world. Dr. Paul D'Varsi emphasizes that the benefits of play extend beyond childhood, offering cognitive and social advantages. Breaking routine and embracing a playful attitude enhance discovery and joy in daily life. Examples include changing commute routes or incorporating playful elements in daily activities to inject creativity and cognitive stimulation.

Intro

3min

Exploring the Importance and Definition of Play Across Life Stages

5min

Exploring the Impact of Efficiency and Remote Work on the Concept of Play

2min

Managing Time and Creating Games with Learning Elements

7min

The Influence of Industrial Revolution on Education and Integrating Play in Classrooms

4min

Transforming Education Through Game-Based Learning

8min

💡 On our power of play series this week we talk with Dr. Paul Davarsi. Play and learning (aren’t they the same thing?) are his twin passions, and lie at the heart of everything he does. Paul teaches about games and play at the University of Toronto, where he is a founding member of the PlayLab. Paul makes games and playful experiences in his role as CEO and co-founder of Gold Bug Interactive, and he bring players together as the Executive Director of the Serious Play Conference. While based in Canada, Paul works with organizations around the world, including UNESCO, the US Department of Education, and diverse NGOs and cultural institutions. His work has been featured on PBS, NPR, CBC, the Huffington Post, and Polygon, among others.

🎙️Connect with our guest:

https://seriousplayconf.com/

https://goldbuginteractive.com/

Want to take this episode further and map out your personal plans for having a playful summer?

🏖️ Explore our six-part planner, download it free :

https://shiftingschools.lpages.co/power-of-play/

👏🏻Thank you to our incredible sponsors for supporting this series:

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https://home.mackin.com/mackinvision/

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https://www.lebrahq.com/

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