Release Date 11 November 2016

Experts at the University of Reading are contributing to the ESRC Festival of Social Science taking their research to the general public and helping shape the way we view learning outside the classroom.

The ESRC Festival of Social Science event : Alternative places and spaces for learning is running this week from 8-11 November and promotes alternative forms of education.

The series of events organised by the Institute of Education is held in locations around Reading explores the value of teaching disadvantaged children in innovative ways.

Dr Carol Fuller explains the impact of outdoor activities on attainment, confidence and sense of efficacy.

Dr Helen Bilton introduces her work on the importance of risk-taking in encouraging young children to become independent and confident in themselves and their learning.

Professor Jill Porter introduces activities designed to support a strong foundation in understanding quantity.

Events have been held this week at Playdays at Tilehurst Library, Toddler and Mothers group at Wycliffe Church. The final event is set to take place on Friday 11 November at 3.30pm at Reading Youth and Community Centre in Whitley.

For more information, email Professor Jill Porter on j.porter@reading.ac.uk.