Why “Design For Play” is better than just “Designing Toys” for Cas Holman? What is the difference? Do you agree with this?
From my perspective, "toys" are ways to realize the process of "playing", and what really matters is the process itself instead of how it achieves its purposes. For Cas Holman, "designing for play" has a wider meaning than "designing toys" since when thinking of "toys", even the dictionary would relate this word with children, however the fact is not limited to this. "Designing for play" at the same time emphasizes more on designing for a process where people of any age, their imagination and creativity can be triggered.
How does Cas Holman’s definitions of toy and play align or differ from what you defined last week?
I think one similar thing of Cas Holman's definition and my definition is that for toy and play, their intended audience is not limited to children but to all people, and even all living creatures. But one thing Cas Holman mentions that play focuses not only on emotion arousing but also creativity, exploration and freedom provides me with new thoughts. I used to put more emphasis on people's emotional changes when talking about the definitions of toys and play, since I thought this was the most distinct outcome of them, however, now I think there are more important purposes besides emotions.
Discuss in the concept of “Play Value” as you understand that term from the movie or other resources (readings, searching online, etc). Analyze your favorite from this point of view. Are there any skills that this toy allowed you to learn when you played with it?
I think "play value" means that you can gain values through the process of playing. The value can relate but not limit to emotions, thoughts, capability, etc. My favorite toy is sealing wax, and the most obvious value I gain through playing it is emotional, a sense of peacefulness. Also, through playing with sealing wax I can gain a sense of patience. I used to be a person who is often impatient, however, I found myself being so patient and focused while playing with sealing wax, and can be immersive in such a simple thing for a long time without getting bored. I think this is a precious skill I can learn when I play with it.