Challenge
Many low- and middle-income countries are rapidly bringing technology into their classrooms. Yet the technology often reinforces traditional teaching practices, rather than serving to deepen and enhance learning. Around the world, educators are seeking support to combine their use of technology with innovative teaching approaches.
The LEGO Foundation-funded Scaling Learning through Play with Technology (Tech & Play) research collaborative supports the foundation’s extensive work promoting learning through play (LtP) globally. LtP helps children gain knowledge, develops their creativity, and sparks their love of learning. Through the Tech & Play research collaborative, EDC brings together research and implementation partners to work in Brazil, Kenya, and Rwanda to (1) increase our knowledge about the benefits of LtP with technology in diverse national contexts and (2) enable the establishment of sustainable LtP with technology programs.
Key Activities
The project is carrying out the following activities:
- Lead a collaborative research effort bringing together researchers and experts from the United States, Europe, Brazil, Kenya, and Rwanda
- Design a multi-faceted, long-term research plan that will support and inform the Tech & Play initiative from pilot phase to scaling in each country
- Create and facilitate a global community of practice of researchers, program developers, and practitioners focused on LtP with technology
- Generate a public conversation about LtP with technology through reports, conference presentations, success stories, blogs, and podcasts in many languages
Impact
- The study will provide insight into the successes and challenges of rolling out LtP with technology in a variety of low- and middle-income country contexts.
- The study will advance knowledge of how playful, technology-infused experiences can enrich and deepen children’s learning and enhance their overall development.
Learn More
PROJECT DIRECTOR
EDC Staff
DURATION
FUNDED BY
PARTNERS
Lifelong Kindergarten Group, MIT Media Lab, Exploratorium, Scratch Foundation, Tufts University, IREX, Lemann Foundation/Brazilian Creative Learning Network, Right To Play