Module: ECS4006-20 Introduction to Practice in Early Childhood Settings

Level: 4

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Katie Crouch

Module Tutor Contact Details: k.crouch@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

This module introduces you to practice and pedagogical approaches in a range of early childhood settings from a multi-disciplinary context. Approaches include listening to children, observation, documentation and assessment, examining and designing an effective early years curriculum, working with parents, families and community members, and safeguarding.

Throughout the module, you will be supported to demonstrate your an understanding of the relationship between theory and practice. On placement, you will have the opportunity to gain knowledge of children’s lived experiences and wider influences on this. Through reflection and reflexive thinking you will document your developing understanding and professional identities. This module will also provide a foundation for later placement- based modules where core ideas and concepts will be revisited and explored.

Over the course of your degree you will be introduced to the Early Childhood Graduate Practitioner Competencies (ECGPC). These competencies will support you to develop the employability skills that you need to flourish within the professional workplace.

There are 10 days of placement on this module. N.B. You must be in possession of a current DBS certificate in order to take this module. Placements are organised by the Partnership Office. You should be prepared to travel up to 45 miles from the term-time address by public transport to reach your assigned setting (i.e. 90 miles round trip per day).

2.Outline syllabus

You will be introduced to the importance of:

• Listening and communicating with all children

• Observation

• Documentation and assessment

• Early childhood curriculum frameworks

• Home and community connections

• Safeguarding

3.Teaching and learning activities

Taught seminars will be based around key concepts which will support your experiences in placement and provide you with evidence to meet the Early Childhood Graduate Practitioner Competencies (ECGPC). The sessions will include a variety of teaching and learning strategies such as practical activities, small group work, paired work and debates. Additional resources will be available on Minerva throughout the duration of this module. You will be visited by your tutor during your placement and supported in this context through a one-one tutorial.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Develop an activity to support listening to children (2000 words)

• % Weighting: 50%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Essay (2000 words)

• % Weighting: 50%