Early Years Research Lab
P-BLOT Collaborators & Research Partners
Origins of the PBLOT™
The P-BLOT™ grew out of the doctoral research of Dr Sarah Aiono, who investigated how two models of professional development could strengthen teachers’ capability to support children’s learning through play in primary school settings. Her doctoral work, guided by Associate Professor Tara McLaughlin and Professor Tracy Riley at Massey University, laid the theoretical and methodological foundations for the development of the P-BLOT™, shaping both its structure and its intended use in classroom practice.
P-BLOT Research Partners & Ongoing Contributions
The evolution of the P-BLOT™ continues to be enriched by the Early Years Research Lab (EYRL) within Massey University’s Institute of Education. Their sustained commitment to advancing high-quality research in early childhood and early primary education has offered valuable insights that support the refinement and ongoing relevance of the tool.
Practice-Based Coaching Influences
Our work is also informed by international research into practice-based coaching (PBC). We acknowledge the significant contributions of Dr Patricia Snyder and her colleagues at the Anita Zucker Center for Excellence in Early Childhood Studies, whose leadership in the development and study of PBC frameworks has shaped our thinking about effective, sustainable professional learning for teachers. The collaboration and parallel work of the Early Years Research Lab in Aotearoa, lead by Associate Professor Tara McLaughlin, further strengthens this foundation, helping us understand how coaching principles translate into meaningful changes in teaching practice.
A Shared Commitment to Evidence-Informed Practice
Collectively, these national and international partnerships — along with over a decade of research and work implementing play pedagogies and supporting teacher learning — provide the backbone of the P-BLOT™. They reflect our commitment to grounding the tool in robust evidence and ensuring it supports educators to make intentional, informed decisions about children’s learning through play.
PBLOT™
A Longworth Education Training Series
Supporting schools with evidence-informed strategies that prioritise teacher wellbeing, professional growth, and sustainable practice.
Get in touch
info@longwortheducation.co.nz