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Tina Bruce, acclaimed for her contributions to childhood education, is recognized as a 'Social Learning Theorist,' whose work has been profoundly shaped by the ideas of Friedrich Froebel. Having initially trained and worked as a teacher at the Froebel Institute, she later ascended to the position of Head at the Froebel nursery school. In 2009, her invaluable services to early childhood education were acknowledged with the award of a CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) (4).
Bruce's theoretical framework centers around the significance of a holistic teaching approach, emphasizing play, experiences, and creativity (4).
At the core of her theory are the ten principles she identified for early education, with a particular focus on the pivotal role of play in a child's learning journey. Bruce ardently believes in the importance of free-flow play, stating in 1997, "When play is at its most fruitful, it is in 'free-flow'" (1). This form of play empowers children, allowing them control over their exploration of ideas and feelings, fostering imagination, and encouraging the freedom to make choices and learn from mistakes.
Building on her ideas, Bruce (1991) identified 12 features crucial for quality free-flow play.
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She proposed that if seven or more of these features are present during play, effective learning outcomes will be observed (3). While children are biologically predisposed to play and develop, they require the involvement of others to initiate these biological processes (2). Bruce suggests that adults can initiate free-flow play but should limit their involvement, allowing the child to retain control.
Bruce's work has been significantly influenced by revolutionary theorists such as Froebel and Montessori, underscoring the interconnectedness of her ideas with broader educational philosophies.
One of Bruce's ten principles highlights the holistic nature of development, a concept aligned with The Curriculum for Excellence today, promoting a holistic approach to teaching. Bruce effectively illustrates the concept and advantages of free-flow play, which is increasingly encouraged in the early years sector. However, her perspective faces opposition from Janet Moyles, who contends that children benefit from the active involvement of teachers, asserting, 'Appropriately directed play will ensure the child learns from his or her current state of knowledge and skill' (5). Bruce's theory, therefore, recognizes the significance of both biological and social aspects in child development and play.
Bruce's theory can be translated into practical contexts in various ways. The holistic approach she advocates can be implemented by granting children more autonomy in their learning. Teachers, through careful observation, can identify children's interests and individual needs, tailoring activities accordingly. Free-flow play can be extended by incorporating a playhouse or home corner, transformed, for example, into a shop. This setting allows children to engage in role play, utilize costumes and props, fostering imagination and independent play. The environment's layout is crucial for free-flow play, requiring sufficient space for children to move freely, with all necessary resources readily available. While there is an initial element of structure in setting up the playhouse and classroom, once established, children have the freedom to play according to their own inclinations. Another practical implementation of free-flow play involves allowing children to move freely between indoor and outdoor activities.
In my own understanding, Bruce's theory has enriched my knowledge of how the ten core principles can be integrated into children's education. Through practical experience, I have learned to distinguish between structured and unstructured or free-flow play. A notable instance of free-flow play during my placement occurred when the playhouse was transformed into a doctor's surgery. Observing the children's use of the playhouse allowed me to witness how they drew upon their own experiences of visiting the doctor, incorporating relevant language and actions into their free play.
Tina Bruce's Holistic Approach to Early Childhood Education. (2016, Mar 21). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/social-learning-theorist-tina-bruce-essay
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