In a room filled with colourful materials, rhythms and imagination, students from different backgrounds and countries gathered to participate in a seminar on the role of play in learning.
The seminar was organised within the framework of ECIU University, a European university network where students, teachers and researchers collaborate across borders to solve real societal challenges. Through ECIU University’s challenge-based learning concept, participants were given the opportunity to explore the role of play in learning in a practical and creative way.
“We wanted to create an experience where students learn not only about play, but through play. Music is a powerful tool for building bridges between people and subjects,” says course leader Daniela Lerma Arregocés.
The course was offered as what is known as a micro-module – a shorter course that gives students an opportunity to study a specific subject in greater depth while developing skills such as collaboration, creativity and problem solving.
Play as an educational tool
The theme of the seminar was Superheroes and Superpowers, and the students got to try everything from rhythmic exercises and dance to drama-based games and free movement. The goal was to create a safe and inclusive environment where everyone could participate – regardless of previous experience of music or drama.
“The hardest thing was to design a seminar where everyone felt comfortable. Many of the students had no musical background, and also the course was international, which meant language barriers. But that’s why it was so important to create a space where everyone could find their own way into the play,” says Daniela Lerma Arregocés.
The students’ experiences show how play can function as an educational tool.
“We got to try out what the children do themselves, and it’s very important to know how it can feel. It was fun, uncomfortable and everything in between – but above all educational,” says Clara Baczkowski, who is studying to become a primary school teacher.
Jocke, who is studying to become a leisure-time pedagogue, appreciated the freedom in the exercises.
“It was nice not to have to follow a certain pattern. There was no one way of doing it – and that’s what made it so good.”
Elin Holmberg, who is also studying to become a leisure-time pedagogue, saw the seminar as an opportunity to gain inspiration for her future teaching.
“My teacher suggested collecting exercises and games so I’ve got a bank to use when I start working.”
Daniela Lerma Arregocés wants to give students a "resource backpack" – a collection of tools and ideas that they can use in their future professional roles.
“Music can be integrated into all subjects – from literature to science – and contribute to creativity, collaboration and emotional engagement. It’s about daring to use play as an educational tool.”
