The education philosophy embraced by the National Museum of Play® at The Strong is inspired by approaches to learning that view the child as a capable partner in curriculum direction and play as a fundamental component in healthy child development. Here are links to some of the ideas and philosophies that have significantly influenced the museum's thinking.
Multiple Intelligences
Howard Gardner
Harvard professor Howard Gardner developed the theory of multiple intelligences, which maintains that the idea of a single intelligence (or “I.Q.”) is far too limited, and that eight different intelligences need to be considered in any accounting of an individual’s full potential. His website features frequently asked questions about his theory and Gardner’s answers in his own words.
Thomas Armstrong
Thomas Armstrong has been the leading figure in the world in translating Howard Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences into practical applications for children, parents, teachers, and adult learners. His website summarizes the intelligences and their impact on teaching and learning.
Reggio Emilia
North American Reggio Emilia Alliance
The Alliance seeks to build a diverse community to promote and defend the rights of children, families, and educators of all cultures through a collaboration of colleagues inspired by the philosophies of the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education.
North American Reggio Emilia Alliance General Bibliography
An extensive bibliography related to the Reggio Emilia approach provided by the North American Reggio Emilia Alliance.
Expeditionary Learning
Expeditionary Learning
Expeditionary Learning is a model of comprehensive school reform that organizes learning, and the school community, around an experiential project-based approach. In this approach, students do original research and create high-quality products for audiences beyond the classroom. The model emphasizes high levels of student engagement, self-direction, achievement, and character development.
Teaching for Understanding
Harvard Graduate School of Education
The Teaching for Understanding Framework from Harvard Graduate School of Education is a guide that can help keep the focus of educational practice on developing and deepening student understanding.
Active Learning Practice for Schools
ALPS—Active Learning Practice for Schools—is an electronic community dedicated to the improvement and advancement of educational practice. The ALPS mission is to create an online collaborative environment between teachers and administrators from around the world with educational researchers, professors, and curriculum designers at Harvard Graduate School of Education.
