module specification

IF3064 - Key Concepts in Early Childhood (2024/25)

Module specification Module approved to run in 2024/25
Module title Key Concepts in Early Childhood
Module level Foundation (03)
Credit rating for module 15
School School of Social Sciences and Professions
Total study hours 150
 
45 hours Scheduled learning & teaching activities
105 hours Guided independent study
Assessment components
Type Weighting Qualifying mark Description
Coursework 100%   Portfolio
Running in 2024/25

(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change)
No instances running in the year

Module summary

The module aims to enable students to:
• Understand a range of key concepts in early childhood
• Develop an understanding of early childhood education and care
• Gain an emerging understanding of being an early childhood professional
• Understand the importance of challenging inequalities

Syllabus

This module will explore a range of concepts which underpin the work of an early childhood professional.  Concepts explored include:  
• An introduction to different perspectives of children and childhood, including consideration of our own childhoods
• An introduction to early childhood policy and provision
• Professionalism in early childhood
• The importance of reflective practice
• A child-centred approach
• An introduction to the impact of inequalities
Students will also undertake some early childhood related visits.

Learning Outcomes LO1 - LO3

Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity

Students theoretical input will be through lectures and seminars.   
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. 
Reflection and discussion are key to teaching and this will be in the context of tutor-led sessions.  Experiential learning will also be utilised to promote students emerging ability to act as a reflective practitioner. 
Teaching and learning strategies and methods also focus on workplace skills and professionalism.  Students will undertake some early childhood related visits and will reflect on observations they undertake to support increased knowledge and understanding and to support the growth of professional competence.  
The development of transferable skills in presenting evidence, arguments and points of view to a range of audiences, through a range of media, including the use of ICT also supports individual learning.

Learning outcomes

1. Demonstrate an understanding of key concepts in early childhood and an ability to reflect critically on matters pertaining to early childhood drawing on appropriate sources to support your arguments;
3. Articulate the importance of challenging inequalities
4. Explain the importance of professionalism in early childhood.

Bibliography

Bruce, T., Meggit, C. and Grenier, J. (2010), Child Care and Education, London: Hodder Education
Cable, C., Miller, L. and Goodliff, G. (2010), Working with Children in the Early Years (2nd Ed), Oxon: David Fulton
Gussin-Paley, V. (1981), Wally’s Stories, CAM:MA: Harvard University Press
Gray, C and MacBlain, S. (2012), Learning Theories in Childhood, London: Sage
Johnston, J and Nahmad-Williams, L. (2008), Early Childhood Studies, Harlow: Pearman Longman
Lindon, J, (2012), Equality and Inclusion in Early Childhood (2nd Edition) Oxon: Hodder Education
Lindon, J. (2010), Reflective Practice and Early Years Professionalism: Linking Theory and Practice, Oxon: Hodder Education
Mukherji, P and Dryden, L. (2014), Foundations of Early Childhood: Principles and Practices, London: Sage
Nutbrown, C. (2011), Key Concepts in Early Childhood Education and Care (2nd Ed), London: Sage
Pound, L. (2008), How Children Learn 2, London: Practical Pre-school