We have started our Research Project “The Brilliance of Blocks”!
Blocks are an essential and fundamental ingredient in our provision here at St. Paul’s.
They are so open-ended and full of endless possibilities.
Children’s collaborative, creative constructions offer such a vivid window onto all aspects of their learning.
We are looking at Block Play through a mathematical lens.
Michael – from Bristol University – is completing his PhD on Block Play and is helping us grow our understanding of mathematical concepts such as pattern and symmetry.
His ideas are helping us think deeply about children’s learning, exploring the opportunities that Block Play affords, and developing our own Early Maths provision and practice.
Our Research Questions include
• What are the best ways to introduce Block Play?
• What is the adult role in supporting Block Play?
• How does pedagogical Subject Knowledge enrich and extend Block Play?
• What methods of documentation best support the development of maths concepts and ideas in children?
We have already been very playful, creative, reflective, active in our Block Room Studio.
And even started to see whether digital apps can help us document children’s brilliant Block Play!
(You can explore one model here https://v.magiscan.app/model/674994898640c64bd55bf504.html)
Please do watch out for more information and documentation about our Block Play research.
