Date of Award

2024

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Master of Education (MEd)

First Advisor

Dr Fozia Parveen

Abstract

Traditional games, as cultural assets, hold significant value that must be preserved to prevent their disappearance in today’s rapidly advancing world. Indigenous outdoor play activities, essential for cross-cultural knowledge and practice, are increasingly recognized as valuable pedagogical tools in early childhood education. This study examines the role of traditional outdoor games in early childhood education within mountainous communities, aiming to document, implement, and assess their impact on young learners' holistic development. By systematically documenting culturally and developmentally appropriate outdoor games, this research highlights the richness of these traditional games as instructional resources in Early Childhood Education (ECE) settings, emphasizing their potential to support comprehensive child growth. 
This study was conducted in three phases; pre-action, action, and post-action, involved semi-structured interviews with community elders (N=10) to document traditional games, which were then validated by early childhood education (ECE) experts (N=4). Seven games were selected for implementation based on their developmental benefits, age appropriateness, gender inclusivity, and ease of application in classroom settings. The action research was carried out in a school in the Chitral district of KPK, focusing on the entire ECE Pre-Primary 2 (PPII) Green section (N=22), with a specific focus on students (N=4). 
Data collection methods included teacher observations, reflective notes, and focus group discussions to monitor children's responses and developmental progress across two intervention cycles. Data were analyzed using thematic categorization. Results indicated that documenting and revitalizing traditional games can enhance play-based learning practices in early childhood education settings. The study revealed that these games significantly support physical, social, and emotional skills, while also cultivating a connection to nature. Teachers observed increased engagement and improved peer interactions among children.
The study concludes that blending traditional outdoor games and modern games offers a well-rounded learning experience, advocating for a balanced approach in early childhood education (ECE) curricula. It sets forth recommendations for policies and practices to include traditional outdoor play, emphasizing its importance in developing holistic development. Additionally, the study highlights the need for further research exploring the role of parents in facilitating children's engagement with traditional games, as well as the impact of home environments on children's play experiences and cultural identity.

First Page

1

Last Page

133

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