Module: ECS5000-20 Care, Development and Learning in Early Childhood

Level: 5

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Nicole Jamison

Module Tutor Contact Details: n.jamison@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

This module is concerned with the care, development and learning of children between birth and eight years of age and the purpose and diversity of early childhood provision. It will support you to develop knowledge and  critical understanding of important aspects of theory, pedagogy and practice as it relates to children’s development and learning.

A key aspect of the module will be an examination of dominant discourses in early childhood education and care and an evaluation of the social policy agenda for families and young children. There will be opportunity to draw on multi-disciplinary approaches to explore your understanding of the centrality of play to children’s development and learning and links will be made with the construction of childhood. The module will also support you to explore the multi-professional/agency nature of provision for young children and their families. You will use current research and a range of source material to build on your capacity to critique research.

2.Outline syllabus

• Explore the political and socio-economic perspectives of the early childhood profession

• Critically examine the role of developmental theory and political ideology in the creation of policy relating to young children

• Examine the impact of early childhood research on policy and practice

• Develop knowledge and understanding of research methodologies used to explore care, learning and development in early childhood

• Develop understanding of how to critique research

• Deepen understanding of the importance of play for young children's care, learning and development and identify key theories and constructs of play

• Explore how pedagogy is informed by social constructions and dominant discourses of childhood, care, development and learning

• Explore the history of and current thinking about attachment theory within early childhood

• Examine the place of the adult role in early childhood practice 

• Consider the diverse range of professions and employment opportunities to which a knowledge of care, development and learning in early childhood can lead

3.Teaching and learning activities

• Lectures

• Seminar activities

• Practical workshops

• Individual tutorials

• Peer Learning

• Guest lectures

• Digital learning experiences

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Essay (2000 words)

• % Weighting: 40%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Case Study (3000 words)

• % Weighting: 60%