Module: ECS6100-20 International Perspectives in Early Childhood

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Kitty King

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

1.Brief description and aims of module:

This module introduces you to a number of international early childhood pedagogies including Te Whariki, Reggio Emilia, Nordic approaches amongst others, which have influenced practice in early childhood education and care. During the module you will identify and analyse similarities and distinctive qualities and their influences on current early years practice in England.

This module provides you with an opportunity to examine the contested nature of childhood, and scrutinise political influences on Early Childhood policy and practice, including issues of citizenship and democracy in early education. Early Childhood Education globally will be explored from a socio-cultural and cultural-historical perspective with a particular focus on the impact of a dominant western discourse and issues relating to education for sustainable development.

This module will enable you to reflect upon the relationship of culture and pedagogy and the influences upon this relationship. This will result in you applying similar lenses to pedagogy and practice in your own country.

2.Outline syllabus:

During this module students will explore and analyse the following key concepts and arguments:

● The contested nature of the image of the child in society and the influence of this on the particular pedagogic approach

● Social, historical, political and cultural influences on the image of the child and the relationship between these and the pedagogical approach

● Social pedagogy and child rearing practices

● The underpinning values of the curricula approach

● Approaches to learning, teaching and assessing

● The desirability and utility of assessment strategies for young children

● The role of the adult

● The role of play

● How the underpinning philosophy is made visible in the practice

● The political dimension of early childhood education and care

● The impact and implications of a dominant western discourse on developing pedagogies in the majority world

● Issues relating to education for sustainable development and culturally sensitive pedagogies

Learning is facilitated by 3 hour seminars in alternate weeks. Tutor generated course materials will be provided on Minerva and discussed in conjunction with key readings in the sessions.

3.Teaching and learning activities:

There will be 13 x 3hr sessions in the module. Each seminar will be a balance of tutor input, student centred discussion, group activity and reflection. Discussion which will develop your understanding of themes relevant to the assessments will be an integral part of each session.

Key reading material for each session will support your engagement in discussion of key ideas and theory which will enhance the quality of your learning outcomes.

Prior to formal assignments an assignment guidance session will be included in the schedule, in which students will work together to develop ideas and approaches to the assignment.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Critical analysis (2,500 words)

• % Weighting: 50

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Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Essay (2,500 words)

• % Weighting: 50