Playful learning - Meaningful learning

Motivation of students is a key factor in any learning situation. How can we create more meaningful and engaging learning environments and activities?

Two approaches have a large potential to improve the intrinsic motivation of learners of all ages. First, a playful learning approach is extremely suitable to allow learners to co-determine their own learning path and to negotiate the goals and the rules for reaching their learning goals. Second, working on real-world challenges shows the immediate relevance of the skills and knowledge being taught.                                                                                                      

Innovative projects in education are examining how to increase the intrinsic motivation of students and incorporate these approaches, of playful learning and working on real-world challenges, in schools and universities. Novel technologies can be used to make learning activities flexible, and to support teachers and students in being self-directed.

In this research meet we will examine how novel technologies and engaging activities can help children and students become the problem solvers of the future.

(Organized by the TU/e Center for Humans & Technology, in co-production with the department of Industrial Design)

THE PROGRAM

12:00 - 12.30 
Welcome (with lunch buffet)

12.30 - 12.35 - Opening
Tilde Bekker, Digital Technologies for Playfulness and Motivation, Eindhoven University of Technology

12:35 - 13:20 -  'How can we teach children to design better futures?'
Emer Beamer, Ashoka Fellow, founder at Designathon Works

13:20 - 14:05  - 'Play moods and playful learning'
Helle Marie Skovbjerg, Design School Kolding – LAB Design for Play

14:05 - 14:30  - Coffee break and poster/demo sessions

14:30 - 15:15 - Design for learning through play – hands on tools for mindset and behavioral change
James Norwood, Experience Design Manager , Lego Foundation

15:15 - 16:00 - Using the qualities of play to develop engaging learning environments
Tilde Bekker, Digital Technologies for Playfulness and Motivation, Eindhoven University of Technology

16.00 - 17.30 - Informal meeting and drinks