Can playing be used as an efficient learning method?
by Ketija Vēze
Traditional teaching activities where the teacher works with the students as an authoritative figure are no longer effective as they do not meet the child's self-expression and self-development needs, failing to develop the child's self-confidence, because the child acts on the instructions of the teacher. There is little mental activity for each child as an individual in such classes. It is important for today's generation to learn with understanding and to feel free in their choices. But can playing be used as an efficient learning method? What do you need to focus on for playing to be an effective learning method?
The interest of the child is the most important thing in this type of learning.
To reach meaningful goals, the interest of the child is of paramount importance. It is important to respect the child's interests, needs, and level of development; all of this is crucial to promote efficient self-development and self-learning.
In traditional classes, the child performs assignments instructed by adults, educators, or parents. These are the teachings and goals set by the teacher who makes sure that the child reaches these aims and develops along the way. But do children truly accept these goals as their own?
Playing games which the child enjoys makes the learning process voluntary. The child tries everything, wishing to experiment and reach the goal on his or her own terms. Playing classes as a form of studies (just like the playing process itself) must give children satisfaction in their activities, build confidence, and guide into further activities.
Key characteristics of a playing class:
set precise development and educational tasks determining the content and form,
the child must enjoy the learning process,
group work is a very effective way of organizing children's cognitive activities,
individual activity is a purposeful development of the child,
work should be purposefully aimed at preserving the child's individuality,
the educator should, as far as possible, refrain from authoritative classes,
the assignments should correspond to the different levels of development of children so that the children could find an activity that suits their interests, allowing time for the tasks to be completed and repeated according to the child's needs.
Human motivation is at the center of human psychology. The child's positive attitude and motivation are formed in the appropriate learning environment. Effective child-centered classes include traditional lessons, couples work, group work, playing classes, and a developing.