Date

Fall 2015

Document Type

Capstone Project

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

Department

Liberal Studies

Abstract

It is widely accepted that young children learn a great deal through play. Early childhood education literature is full of examples of the importance of play, yet elementary school classrooms are becoming more rigorous, with less time devoted to play. It is the intention of this paper to examine the benefits of re-introducing play into the curriculum specifically with cooperative board games. Cooperative board games have the potential to change the atmosphere of the learning environment into a student-centered, teacher-facilitated dynamic utilizing small groups, and focusing on problems as opportunities for development. Games naturally draw the attention of young students, and utilizing cooperative games develops a spirit of helping one another. In today’s school system there is little incentive to help other students, as the farther ahead you are, the more praise you would receive. Cooperative board games develop a dynamic that instills the benefits of working together, and deteriorates the natural aggression that may come with a competitive board game.

Comments

Capstone Project (B.A.) Liberal Studies Department

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