Episode Description: In this episode of Evidence for Education, we talk with Dr. Myae Han, a professor in the Human Development and Family Sciences department at the University of Delaware, about the critical role of play-based learning in child development and education. Though often viewed as separate from academics, play is a powerful tool for fostering cognitive, social, and emotional growth. Dr. Han shares insights on how educators can effectively integrate play into the classroom, shift their perspectives through professional development, and overcome common barriers to play-based learning. We also explore the future of play in education and why it remains essential for student success
Guest’s work:
Han, M. (n.d.). The power of pretend play in language and literacy learning. The Genius of Play. https://thegeniusofplay.org/genius/expert-advice/articles/the-power-of-pretend-play-in-language-and-literacy-learning.aspx
Han, M., Buell, M., Liu, D., & Pic, A. (2023). Can an intensive professional development on play change child care providers’ perspectives and practice on play? International Journal of Play, 12(2), 175–192. https://doi.org/10.1080/21594937.2023.2209239
Han, M., Whiteside-Mansell, L., Hustedt, J. T., Drain, D., Eubanks, R., Joe, C., Lawson, I., & Pic, A. (2023). Relationships between play and learning practices among low-income families. American Journal of Play, 15(2), 136-157
Han, M., Moore, N., Vukelich, C., & Buell, M. (2010) Does Play Make a Difference? How play intervention affects the vocabulary learning of at-risk preschoolers, American Journal of Play. 3(1), 82-105. https://www.museumofplay.org/app/uploads/2022/01/3-1-article-does-play-make-a-difference.pdf
Hooper, A., Han, M., Buell, M., & Hallam, R. (2023). Perspectives on quality and supporting quality improvement from early childhood technical assistants working with family child care educators. Journal of Early Childhood Teacher Education, 44(4), 1024–1044. https://doi.org/10.1080/10901027.2023.2257140
