Date Approved
1-12-2026
Graduate Degree Type
Project
Degree Name
Education-Literacy Studies: TESOL (M.Ed.)
Degree Program
College of Education
First Advisor
Nagnon Diarrassouba
Academic Year
2025/2026
Abstract
This project addresses the drastic decline of play and play-based learning in public education early childhood settings. Kindergarten classrooms have shifted their focus more to academics in the form of lecture based learning and lessons, rather than play based learning techniques. Because of this, children are lacking in cognitive development, physical development and social and emotional development and growth. This project includes research from within the state of Michigan, research within the United States as a whole, and research about play based learning from other countries such as Nigeria, Mexico, South Africa, Kenya, Finland, and Germany.
ScholarWorks Citation
Prawdzik, Marina E., "Play-Based Curriculum" (2026). Culminating Experience Projects. 664.
https://scholarworks.gvsu.edu/gradprojects/664
