Using the Play Cycle Observation Method (PCOM) to record the process of play

The Play Cycle was first introduced in 1998 by Gordon Sturrock and Perry Else at the International Play Association (IPA) Conference, Colorado, USA. The Play Cycle focuses on the process of play. In 2018, Dr. Pete King and Dr. Shelly Newstead researched the use and understanding of the Play Cycle that resulted in a revision of the six key elements that make it up. From the revised Play Cycle, Dr. Pete King developed a new method in recording the process of play: The Play Cycle Observation Method (PCOM). The PCOM has been piloted using both videos and in ‘real-time and offers a valid and reliable method to observe and record elements of the Play Cycle.

The PCOM training session is split into 2 parts:

PART 1: Monday 30th Oct 10:00 – 11:30 UK time. This session will provide an explanation of the Play Cycle theory and introduce the Play Cycle Observation Method (PCOM).  Pete will demonstrate how the PCOM can record elements of the Play Cycles. You will then have a 2-week break to put the PCOM into practice.

PART 2: Monday 13th Nov 10:00 – 11:00 UK time. This sessions will provide a reflection on how you have undertaken further PCOM observations since session 1.  You will have the chance to discuss your experience with everybody else.