Reclaiming Your Inner Child Through the Art of Play

Abstract

This action research study evaluated whether a change in an adult’s level of knowledge about play positively impacts their perceived attitude about play and its role in their lives and also whether it impacts their perceived ability to implement the strategies learned. The researcher identified the problem while learning about playfulness in adults and its impact on health and wellbeing. The project took place online, with learners completing an asynchronous online curriculum, along with a pre- and post-assessment, knowledge check quizzes, and a Play Journal. Descriptive statistics were used to determine the amount of change in overall knowledge level from pre-assessment to knowledge check quizzes. Coding and thematic analysis were used to evaluate changes to learners’ attitudes about play and their perceived ability to implement the strategies learned. On average, knowledge level positively increased by 1.6 points per topic and learners indicated a desire for and a plan to incorporate more play into their day-to-day lives. Learners also showed a change in their perceived attitudes about play by Likert scale questions on the pre- and post-assessment, the majority of which increased positively after completing the play curriculum.

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