The symposium runs over two days with one theme each.
Day 1 asks what playful STEAM is in ECEC.
Day 2 turns to methods and how to build knowledge across studies. Each day combines keynotes, parallel open sessions and time for discussion.
The programme is subject to change.
Optional pre-symposium session for early career researchers, 09.00–11.00
Three parallel dialogue groups, one per keynote speaker, with a maximum of 20 participants in each. Participants send in a one-page research challenge in advance.
Day 1, 7 October 2027: Conceptual foundations. What is playful STEAM in ECEC?
| Time | Session |
|---|---|
| 11.00–11.30 | Registration |
| 11.30–11.45 | Welcome, Camilla Finsterbach Kaup |
| 11.45–12.30 | Keynote 1: Marilyn Fleer |
| 13.30–15.00 | Open sessions in three streams |
| 15.00–15.20 | Plenary |
| 15.45–16.30 | Keynote 2: Cristina Sylla |
| 17.00–18.30 | Optional tour at Kunsten Museum of Modern Art Aalborg |
| 19.00 | Symposium dinner at Kunsten |
Day 2, 8 October 2027: Methods and knowledge-building
| Time | Session |
|---|---|
| 09.15–10.00 | Keynote 3: Eva Brooks |
| 10.30–12.00 | Open sessions in three streams |
| 13.00–14.00 | Open sessions continued |
| 14.15–15.00 | Early career researcher poster session with keynote feedback and awards |
| 15.00–15.45 | Collaborative closing workshop, chaired by Susanne Dau |
| 15.45–16.00 | Closing remarks |
Streams, Day 1
- Playful STEAM in practice: children’s engagement, agency and meaning-making
- Conceptual and theoretical frameworks for playful STEAM
- STEAM, professional development and practitioner knowledge
Streams, Day 2
- Research methodology: video analysis, design-based and participatory approaches
- Implementation and evaluation of playful STEAM interventions
- Computational and design-oriented approaches in play-based ECEC settings
Social programme: The optional tour and symposium dinner take place at Kunsten. A visit to the Life Foundation is also part of the social programme.