Module: ECS6103-20 Professional Identities

Level: 6

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor:  Ben Van Praag

Module Tutor Contact Details: a.lewis2@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:  

This module is designed to support international students from Hunan University of Humanities, Science and Technologies with their academic skills as they enter Level 6 of the BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies programme. 

Specifically, it aims to develop the skills and understanding that will allow you to engage actively in learning; help you understand cultural differences in learning methods in the UK and the advantages and disadvantages of different approaches. It will also support your learning in your other Level 6 modules. The module aims to develop your skills and confidence in relation to academic English language skills, understanding of theories related to the field of Early Childhood Studies and transferable life skills.

• In this module, you will be supported to demonstrate the following Graduate Attributes:

• Critical thinking: an ability to express your ideas in written and oral form and possession of information literacy.

• Global awareness: an understanding of different cultures and how this can affect the educational contexts

• Equality & Diversity: a recognition of diversity in the educational environment and equality of opportunity

• Employability: the skills necessary to flourish in the global workplace, including working in teams and in different cultures.

2.Outline syllabus:

The syllabus will cover:

An exploration of key topics in the field of Early Childhood Studies (e.g. pedagogical concepts such as play and playfulness, educational theoretical models related to leadership and management and early childhood education skills development)

• Key academic skills (report writing, working collaboratively, critical thinking etc.)

• Primary/Secondary data collection, collation and reporting skills for early childhood dissertation 

• Key personal skills development (time management, actively contributing to tasks, developing confidence, recordkeeping etc.)

• Raising awareness of the significance of historical, social and cultural context in early childhood

Development of the four key language skills (speaking, listening, reading and writing) along with development of language accuracy and vocabulary specific to the field of Early Childhood Studies

You will work collaboratively on projects throughout the semester that complement your other Level 6 modules. You will conduct research within the field of Early Childhood Studies and will reflect on your learning.

3.Teaching and learning activities:

The approach to teaching and learning in this module is based on an interactive communicative model. Teaching/Learning activities will include interactive classes/seminars, research activities and project work. You will work both individually and in groups. Appropriate technology will be used to enhance your learning and as a communication platform both between tutor and student, and student to student.  All teaching and learning activities will aim to develop your autonomy, engagement and critical thinking skills.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description:An individual research report (3000 words) 

• % Weighting: 60%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: A reflective poster presentation

• % Weighting: 40%