Course Resources Archive

This module builds on the theories of play and working with children at play introduced in Level 4 and explores further the play environment (both physical and affective, including the role of the adult), the organisational framework of the play setting (aims, policies, procedures etc) and the wider cultural, policy and professional context in which professionals operate. It uses Lester & Russell's Manchester Circles as a framework, concentrating on the 2nd, 3rd and 4th circles. It builds on models of practice introduced in LE4602. The knowledge and skills gained in this module will underpinmany aspects of Level 5 and 6 study.

Manchester Circles (an adaptation of Bronfenbrenner's ecology of human development) and the direction of influences between circles; Circle 2: rich physical play environments; building a culture and atmosphere conducive to play; the role of the practitioner; models of practice; adulteration and intervention, risk and uncertainty in play; Circle 3: examination of the organisation's vision, aim, policies and procedures in relation to the Manchester Circles;Circle 4: children's contexts; the play setting and the community/ies; working with parents and carers; the policy and political context; the professional context.

A student passing this module should be able to:

1. compare and contrast models of practice and the implication for service delivery and the child's right to play;
2. evaluate a play setting using indicators to measure the quality of the play environment;
3. evaluate their setting's policies and practices with regard to how far they support or constrain children's play;
4. carry out observation of how children use their environment for play;
5. apply theories of play to the design of spaces for play;
6. explain how local and national policies and strategies can affect children’s play;
7. work independently and with groups to investigate specific problems.

The Library Catalogue contains full details of the current reading list for this module. Further details may also be found in the Module Guide.