Overview
Play is a concept that crosses over many different aspects of children and young people’s lives. This can include developmental, educational, recreational and therapeutic contexts. Perceptions of play can vary from an adult, child, practice and policy perspective. All these aspects are considered in relation to how play is researched at Swansea University.
The Department of Education and Childhood Studies have two leading play researchers, namely Dr Pete King and Dr Justine Howard. Their research, both collaboratively and individually has been published both nationally and internationally. The most recent collaborative research published has been a study of the play workforce in Wales, whilst individually Dr Justine Howard is currently involved in the use of play to support adversity and Dr Pete King’s research focuses on the process of play within the ‘Play Cycle’.