The Learning Gains through Play (LGP) project focuses on the development and practice of foundational literacies in Grades R and 1 through the innovative use of technology-enabled, learner-centred play in the classroom. Intel tablets loaded with carefully selected apps and games are integrated into learning activities to stimulate and enhance fine-motor skills and to develop and practice visual literacy and numeracy skills. Xbox Kinect game consoles use data projectors and television screens to engage learning through play, develop gross-motor and fine-motor skills and provide opportunities to reinforce visual and number literacies. As English is the language medium for almost all of the apps and games, one of the components of the research is to measure any acquisition of English oral language that develops as a result of interacting with these apps and games. Teachers have participated in an intense professional development programme supporting the embedding of technology use in classroom teaching and learning, the development and practice of new and innovative teaching strategies with technology and integrating the technology within lesson planning to meet the CAPS curriculum requirements.  Teachers are starting to report that their learning environments are transforming through the use of technology and increasing opportunities for play.  Read the full report here to find out more about this amazing project.
Read the full report here