Jen Chalkley’s journal article ‘The Play Gap: Construction toys in the design process‘ is hot off the press.
Abstract: Anchored in current debates surrounding spatial design education, this paper investigates the role of unstructured play using construction toys as a catalyst for creativity and collaboration in early design development. Moving beyond established design methodologies, the study explores how playful, non-competitive, and uncertain activities influence idea generation and iteration among students. By examining play as both method and mindset, the research situates construction toys within a framework of playful pedagogy. The findings contribute to ongoing discussions on alternative pedagogies; revealing how unstructured play can foster imaginative engagement, encourage collaborative exploration, and expand the pedagogical toolkit for spatial design practice.
The journal article is published in Volume 10 (Issue 1) of Charrette ‘an open access peer reviewed journal of the association of architectural educators (aae).’