module specification

In this module students will learn about range of curriculum models and their underpinning philosophical and pedagogical principles within national and international contexts. The difference between curriculum and syllabus will be explored by examining different approaches to relational and play pedagogy and the implications of these approaches in practice.  These, in turn, will shape students view of what children should be taught (the curriculum) and how they should be taught (pedagogy).

This module aims to enable students to:
- Study range of curriculum models and approaches within social and political context.
- Explore the underpinning philosophical views of the child and pedagogical principles within UK and other countries
- Examine relational and play pedagogy and the tension between theory and practice.
- Develop an understanding of the difference between curriculum and syllabus in practice and its impact on children’s learning.

In this module, students will study the difference between curriculum and syllabus, different models and approaches of curriculum such as such as subject centred and learner centred curriculum, the EYFS, the National Curriculum [Key stages 1 & 2], Froebel, Steiner, Montessori, Forest Schools, Home Schooling, and international curricula. The philosophical underpinning principles of different pedagogical approaches will be considered. Relational and play pedagogy will be explored in relation to national and international contexts and the tension between theory and practice. LO1,LO2,LO3,LO4

Theoretical input will be through lectures and seminars and collaborating learning. Students will benefit from a blended learning approach through the use of WebLearn for supplementary materials, links to E-books, on-line discussions and self-assessment exercises such as quizzes, and reflective tasks. By using Padlet, students and tutors will collaborate to reflect, and participate in the learning and teaching process.  

Reflection and discussion are key to teaching for all students.  This will take in the context of tutor-led sessions and after sessions by posting reflection on Weblearn using padlet.  For all students experiential learning promotes their growing ability to act as a reflective practitioner.

On successful completion of this module students will be able to:
1. Critically analyse a range of curriculum models in relation to how children learn.
2. Describe, analyse and constructively critique relational and play pedagogy in relation to practice.
3. Demonstrate an understanding of the need to draw on pedagogical approaches when evaluating and planning for children’s learning.
4. Articulate the adult’s role in developing, planning and implementing a curriculum.

Students will demonstrate that they have met the learning outcomes through the submission of:

1. Curriculum critique: Develop and critically discuss an ideal curriculum for the early years considering different philosophical and pedagogical approaches.

2. Curriculum plans and rational: Choose one area of the curriculum and plan appropriate weekly, termly and annual syllabuses to meet the requirements of the curriculum area.  A detailed rationale to be provided determining the pedagogical and philosophical reasons for your choice.

Broadhead, P. and Burt, A. (2011) Understanding young children’s learning through play: Building playful pedagogies. London: Routledge.

Brogaard Clausen, S. (2015) Schoolification or early years democracy? A cross curricular perspective from Denmark and England. Contemporary Issues in Early Childhood, 16(4), pp.355-373

Callanan, M., Anderson, M., Haywood, S., Hudson, R. and Speight, S. (2016) Study of early education and development: Good practice in early education research report. London: DfE Publications

Department for Education (DfE) (2014) Statutory framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage: Setting the standards for learning, development and care for children from birth to five. London: DfE Publications.

Miller L., and Pound L., (2011). Theories and  Approaches to Learning in the Early Years, Madenhead: Sage

Blackburn C., (2016) The value of the relational pedagogy and professional love to Early childhood intervention and Child/family well-being
http://tactyc.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Dr-Carolyn-Blackburn_Briefing-2016.pdf

DfE(2015) Pedagogy in early childhood Education and Care (ECEC): an International comparative study of approaches and policies
https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/445817/RB400_-_Early_years_pedagogy_and_policy_an_international_study.pdf

Tovey H., (2014) Bringing the Froebel Approach to your Early Years Practice, Oxon: Routledge

Nicol J., (2016) Bringing the Steiner Approach to your Early Years Practice (3rd ed), Oxon: Routledge

Doyle, J. and Milchem, K. (2012) Developing a Forest School in Early Years Provision, London: Practical Pre-School Books

Wyse D., (2012) Creating the Curriculum, Oxon: Routledge

Cremin T., and Arthur J., (eds) (2014) Learning to teach in the Primary School, Oxon: Routledge