Playground Design

Paper Summary:

The purpose of this paper is an evaluation of playgrounds, with specific attention to how playgrounds promote fine and gross motor development in children aged 3-7. The intent of the study is to review previously designed playgrounds and assess their efficacy at developing fine and gross motor skills using a five point check list. In addition, the results of the study are used to develop a theory regarding ways that designers can improve on the traditional playground design to make a playground more likely to help develop children's fine and gross motor development.
This study focuses on whether traditional play equipment is appropriate for the natural play of children and for encouraging fine and gross motor development in children.

Outline:
Methodology
Research Design
Data Analysis
Definitions of Dependent Measures
Statistical Analysis
Anticipated Results
Conclusions/Discussion
References

From the Paper:

"To assess teacher perceptions of activities that may enhance gross and fine motor development, the author also proposes surveying no less than five teachers working with children at the elementary level to assess their views regarding gross and fine motor development in children at the playground. To achieve this the researcher proposes use of a short semi structured interview questionnaire that will prompt teachers to provide open ended responses to questions assessing the efficacy of current equipment at enhancing gross and fine motor development in children. The primary focus of this research will be to gain ideas for insights as to design improvements that may be made to help promote greater fine and gross motor development in children. The researcher will compare the information gathered from this portion of the research with information gathered from the Meta analysis to provide a well rounded discourse on proper design enhancements for promoting development in children using playgrounds."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Dewey, D. & Kaplan, B.J. (1992). "Analysis of Praxis task demands in the assessment of children with developmental motor deficits." Developmental Neurospsychology, 8(4): 370.
• Gabbards, C. (1998). "Windows of opportunity for early brain and motor development. " JOPERD, 69(8): 54.
• Hogberg, C. (2003). "Popular scales used for assessing kids with special needs." Barrington Public Schools, http://www.pecentral.org/adapted/adaptedassessmentchart.pdf.
• Hudson, S.D., Mack, M.G & Thompson, D. (1997). "Are we safe yet? A twenty-five year look at playground safety." The Journal of Physical Education, Recreation and Dance, 68(8): 32.
• Nowicki, E.A. (2003). "A meta analysis of the social competence of children with learning disabilities compared to classmates of low and average to high achievement." Learning Disability Quarterly, 26(3): 171.

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APA Citation:

MLA Citation: