The Playful Learning Association (PLA) is driven by a diverse team of educators, including academics, researchers, librarians, professional staff, and university leaders, all with a passion for play in higher education and each contributing their unique expertise and experiences to the mission of the PLA.
The PLA is dedicated to enriching universities by championing playful approaches to learning, teaching, assessment, research, and all other forms of academic practice. They collaborate to share ideas and expertise, creating transformative learning experiences that make a real difference to students in universities across the country. The team’s activities transcend disciplinary and institutional boundaries, fostering a supportive and critical environment for playful learning nationally and internationally.
The team’s main activities include running the annual Playful Learning Conference, publishing the Journal of Play in Adulthood, providing an online support network, and hosting regular meetings and events. These activities provide an ecosystem for sharing and supporting playful learning practices, empowering educators and researchers globally.
The impact of the PLA is far-reaching. They have defined the field of playful learning in Higher Education, challenged perceptions of play as frivolous, and demonstrated its pedagogic potential. Their work has influenced practice and perceptions globally, inspiring changes in teaching practices, setting out a research agenda, improving inclusivity and championing non-tradition approaches to learning.