In the last two decades an abundance of books and research articles have been published on the topics of play and playful learning. In this session, the presenter will provide a historical perspective on the study of play using the biographical content and scholarly writings of theorists and educators across seven centuries, from Plato to contemporary educators. The presenter, who is also the editor of a book on play scholars, will share their perspectives on play as well as vignettes from their lives. We will participate in a game that compares and contrasts theories and practices about play in education.
Vivien L. Geneser is an acclaimed teacher, researcher, and teacher educator who has taught at all levels from preschool through graduate school and has presented at numerous conferences. She is currently teaching classes on Play in Educational Settings for Diverse Learners at Texas State University. Dr. Geneser served as the co-editor of Early Years journal for the Texas Association for the Education of Young Children for eleven years and has published books, textbooks, book chapters, and articles on play, playful learning, children’s literature, the history of education, and equity.