Playful learning as an approach in higher education has been growing in recent years. In this session we will explore the theory and practice of playful learning. First, by drawing on the metaphor of the magic circle that positions play at the intersection of games and playfulness we will look at the potential benefits of play. Second, we will take part in a series of playful activities that show the importance of playful reframing, learning through failure, and creating play communities that allow people to play in different ways. Finally, we will consider play as a privileged practice and highlight the importance of inclusive play design. 

This session is being facilitated by Professor Susannah Quinsee and Nic Whitton who is Professor of Digital Learning and Play at Northumbria University. Her research focuses on the potential of video games and playful learning in higher education, and she is currently leading the ESRC funded multi-institution RE:PLAY project that aims to evidence the effectiveness of playful learning in Higher Education. She has written several books in the area, including recently co-editing (with Rikke Toft Nørgård) The Playful University (2024, Routledge) which brings together playful reflections on the philosophy, pedagogy and politics of higher education.

Lunch and refreshments will be available at this event which is funded as part of the ESRC project RE:PLAY.