Course Resources Archive

This module builds on the foundations of PLP401 by developing a critical appreciation of the relationship between play and space. Drawing on contemporary concepts from philosophy, biology, psychology, human geography and the social studies of childhood the module will examine the production of space through the complex and dynamic encounters and interplay between human and non-human materials and symbols.

The module will provide theoretical and conceptual tools that examine the nature of ‘space’ and the spatial nature of children’s play. It will examine critically how interrelated historical and contemporary themes (including outdoors/indoors, public/private, adult/child, natural/artificial, and real/virtual) shape approaches to design of play spaces. Critical consideration will also be given to research which explores the contemporary conditions for children’s ability to independently access outdoor play spaces. From this, the student will critically appraise professional practice in light of theories and concepts introduced in the module.

Indicative content will be:

Conceptualisations of ‘space’ and the relationship with play; theoretical perspectives on production of space; historical and contemporary influences on play space design; play, space and place attachment; play and natural space; affordances of ‘things’; contemporary conditions for children’s opportunity to play out; implications for professional practice.

A student passing this module should be able to:

1. Demonstrate an advanced understanding of the concept of space as a product of complex and multiple interrelations

2. Synthesize diverse disciplinary concepts to account for the ways in which children’s play produces distinctive time/space

3. Critically evaluate historical and contemporary influences on play space design

4. Analyse critically research findings that explore  influences on children’s ability to play outdoors

5. Apply new understanding to reflect critically on their professional role in the design and management of play spaces

Total study time for a module is 200 hours.

Scheduled learning and teaching activities: 40 hours (reading of relevant materials and engagement in web-based discussions, study days, scheduled online seminars, tutorials, etc.).

Guided independent study 160 hours (independent research and reading, observations of children at play, preparation of assessments). 

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