Dr Janette Griffin

Senior Lecturer, University of Technology Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

You Don't Learn in There, You Play!

Abstract

A study into people's perceptions of learning in different settings was triggered by comments from children who had recently visited a museum. The comments indicated that these children (in grades 5 & 6) had a clear perception of where and in what circumstances learning did or did not take place. Teachers and parents provide many cues to children which indicate that learning in different settings and by different means is afforded varying status. This paper will present findings on children's and key adults' views on the value of learning in different circumstances. Photographs were used to stimulate discussion on learning in a range of settings in an effort to uncover perceptions and relative values. The findings will be related to literature on learning, play, enjoyment and entertainment.

Bionote

Janette Griffin lectures in science education and informal learning at the University of Technology, Sydney. She has previously taught in primary and secondary schools and in a museum and science centre. Her research is into school group visits to museums and into perceptions of learning in different settings.

Presentation Type
30 min . Paper

Presentation Equipment and Other Requests
Overhead Projector

Speaking Date/Time Restrictions

Country
Australia