Get to Know the Researcher

Hello! My name is Jessica and I am a senior at Bridgewater State University in Bridgewater, MA. I am studying Early Childhood Education and Psychology with a minor in Special Education Professional Practices. For 2 summers I worked at a play-based summer camp for children with social and emotional challenges. This camp helped me to see the power of play. Upon reflection of observation hours I had conducted for my education classes, I realized that there wasn't as much play found in classrooms as I had originally thought. This inspired me to want to explore play-based learning and ways to incorporate it into classrooms. My hope is that my research will also inspire you to integrate play-based learning into your classroom.

 

After completing my bachelors degree, I plan to attend a research based masters program and eventually get my doctoral degree. My career goals include becoming a kindergarten inclusion teacher, working in administration and eventually a college professor. These career goals will allow me to work in all the fields that bring me joy as well as help future generations of children. As a college professor, I will be able to pass on my knowledge I learned hands on to the next generation of future teachers.

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I currently work as a substitute teacher in the Wilmington Public Schools. I also work as a cashier and Point of Sale (POS) Clerk at Market Basket and as a Team Leader in the Visitation Program at Bridgewater State University. I have completed Commonwealth Honors and will be completing Departmental Honors during my senior year. I will be writing my honors thesis and completing an honors contract this fall semester. 

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