About The Theory Of Loose Parts

Author

Simon Nicholson

Description

The Theory Of Loose Parts is a theory outlined by Simon Nicholson that explains the relationship between environmental variables and creativity. The original article, titled How NOT To Cheat Children: The Theory Of Loose Parts, first appeared in a 1971 issue of Landscape Architecture. Open University later published a somewhat different version titled The Theory Of Loose Parts. This second version expanded on this concept, making it more accessible to educators.

Nicholson sums up the theory in a single sentence: ‘In any environment, both the degree of inventiveness and creativity, and the possibility of discovery, are directly proportional to the number and kinds of variables in it.’

This theory has dramatically impacted the corner of the early learning world that focuses on child-led play.

We’ve set aside a corner of Playvolution HQ to highlight loose parts ideas.

You can view both versions of the article at the links below.

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