This presentation was given at the California Conference on Library Instruction on May 31, 2024. Learn more at the conference webpage.
Title: Playing to Learn in Higher Education: Thinking outside of the pizza box
Abstract:
Play and playful learning can be freeing and allow for spontaneity, which is crucial when performing scholarly research, solving problems, or honing life-long learning skills. But also, playful teaching moments provide opportunities for individuals to engage with libraries in non-traditional ways which expands the ideas of what is possible in our civic spaces. Engaging play encourages individuals to reflect, strategize, and work in unconventional ways all while using tools which are readily and easily accessible.
This presentation will look at the course Playing to Learn in Higher Education which is a ten-week seminar taught by a faculty librarian in an academic art library. Those who attend will learn more about the pedagogy of play and view examples of playful learning activities and assignment used for multi-modal library engagement. But also, individuals will have the opportunity to try a series of playful learning exercises facilitated via a zine similar to an assignment used in the course.