ERIC Number: ED316323
Record Type: RIE
Publication Date: 1989
Pages: 99
Abstractor: N/A
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
Improving Learning Environment for Infant/Toddler and Preschool Children through Planning a Developmentally Oriented Playground.
Stewart, Ruth L.
A preschool director designed an outdoor playground for 115 infants, toddlers, and preschoolers attending an early childhood center operated by a graduate theological seminary. Based on a review of the relevant literature on different aspects of outdoor play, the design reflected a playground that: (1) integrated outdoor play area with indoor curriculum; (2) invited children to participate in spontaneous play with many choices of activities; (3) allowed children opportunities for creativity; (4) provided stimulation for children to explore and expand their experiences; and (5) contributed to the child's total development. Additionally, the design met long-term planning guidelines and cost limits and was approved for implementation over a period of 3 years at a cost of approximately 10,000 dollars per year. Using Lavell and Harmes' (1985) "Playground Improvement Rating Scale (PIRS)," the design was evaluated in terms of activities and equipment, safety and health, organization of the play area, variety of play surface, and surrounding environment. Evaluation results indicated that the playground design met 95 percent of the criteria in the measured areas. The report of action taken during the practicum discusses steps taken to attain objectives, difficulties encountered, and steps taken for problem solution. Over 40 references are cited and related materials are appended, including a map of the playground design and instruments, especially the PIRS. (RH)
Publication Type: Dissertations/Theses - Practicum Papers
Education Level: N/A
Audience: Practitioners
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A
Note: Ed.D. Practicum, Nova University.