Early childhood is an important stage when children develop curiosity, values and problem-solving skills. This developmental window provides a strong foundation for lifelong learning, making it an ideal entry point for introducing key concepts such as environmental stewardship, cultural identity and social responsibility.
That is the idea behind ReneWable Rangers, a learning game prototype that uses play, storytelling and adventure to teach young children about science and renewable energy. The game contributes to the ongoing conversation about developing educational approaches that are equitable, locally relevant and globally conscious. Moleboheng Mokhele, an innovative early childhood STEM education researcher, unpacks the findings of her co-authored conceptual paper on how ReneWable Rangers can serve as a model for science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) education.
Why focus on play-based learning?
Global challenges, such as climate change, biodiversity loss and resource depletion, force a rethink of how to prepare the next generation. These issues are not far away from children’s lives.
Education holds a responsibility. Early childhood – from birth to 8 years old – is a stage where children develop values and problem-solving skills. It is marked by rapid cognitive growth, heightened curiosity, and an increasing awareness of the world around them.
