Entre o caos e a geometria : o "lugar" do brincar

Abstract

This study is an invitation to reflect on play which is considered to be a "basic activity" in the area of Children’s Education. As playing is an activity which can be compared to a multi-faceted prism, analysing the theories along whit all their associations, that same nursey teachers have on play, is the subject area that this particular research has shed light on. The study of these ideas associated with play was preceded by a short theoretical journey into the contributions which Psychology (Piaget, Wallon and Vygotsky) and Sociology (Brougere) have offered to this research into child’s play. Pressuposed ideas about the discourse analysis formed the basis for the collection of data and their subsequent analysis. Thus, the theories on play which were influenced by the work of these professionals was given special treatment. The structure of the discourse of the subjects involved in this research, has been organized into five categories, this being the best way to introduce these ideas or associations which also have their awn outlines or subheadings. In its final part, this study proposes the re-thinking of the "place" given to play which according to the staff of the nursery which underwent research, cames between CHAOS and GEOMETRY.