TEACHx 2024

Much of the literature on play as a learning approach is based on the early years, particularly kindergarten, where it is an accepted pedagogical mode. However, this does not have to be the case. A playful pedagogy of mathematics can be codified and made real, rigorous, and authentic even in early mathematics methods course. In this study, "play" is used as a vehicle to move mathematics instruction and learning beyond rote memorization to a more expansive understanding of mathematics. Both quantitative and qualitative methods was conducted to examine the pre-service teachers' conceptions of early mathematics and play.