Fleer’s Conceptual PlayWorld

A Conceptual PlayWorld is an imaginary scenario created by an educator where young children are invited to go on imaginary journeys, meet and solve challenges, and learn STEM concepts – all while playing.

A Conceptual PlayWorld can be inspired by a children’s book or a fairy tale story, and it can be set up in an average classroom, or even at home. Imagination is the limit!

This imaginary world enables educators and families to deliver play-based programs for young children where they get to experience and live through concepts that would otherwise be difficult to explain.

The Conceptual PlayWorld is an evidence-based model of intentional teaching developed by Laureate Professor Marilyn Fleer at Monash University. Based on her extensive research and experience of working with young children, educators and families, Marilyn’s model values children’s play and stories in their learning of STEM concepts (i.e. science, technology, engineering and mathematics).

Fleer’s Conceptual PlayWorld App is a free app developed by Monash Professor Marilyn Fleer.  It contains a series of how-to videos specifically designed to help early childhood educators to design and implement their own Conceptual PlayWorlds. The app comes with examples to support your understanding. The app is available for both Apple and Android devices.

Find out more about the Conceptual PlayWorld research, resources for educators and families at Fleer’s Conceptual PlayWorld.