Details for EDU130 Early Childhood Perspectives Past and Present

This subject introduces students to early childhood education within the context of a contemporary and changing world. They will engage with theoretical perspectives that have contributed to the history and philosophy of early childhood education. Students will identify and analyse connections between historical and contemporary philosophical and theoretical perspectives and educational practice, examining the impact of past and current policies and practices, and will critically engage with current research and theoretical perspectives informing multiple understandings of children and childhoods. They will consider historical perspectives on children and childhood and the development of education and care in Australia. Students will also analyse philosophies, theories, and theorists that have helped shape views about children and children’s learning, curriculum development and the role of the teacher. They will also develop comprehensive knowledge about the principles of practice embedded within legislative, regulatory practices and curriculum documents. 

Quick Stats

• Currently offered by Alphacrucis: Yes
• Course code: EDU130
• Credit points: 10

Subject Coordinator

Prerequisite

Nil

Unit Content

Outcomes

1. Demonstrate an understanding of the historical factors and philosophies that have influenced past and present early childhood education and care frameworks and practices in Australia.  
2. Analyse and interpret current research and theoretical perspectives to apply multiple understandings of children and childhood. 
3. Identify and discuss how educational philosophies and worldview influence curriculum, pedagogy, and service provision in early childhood and  
4. Demonstrate an understanding of how contemporary theoretical and philosophical frameworks concerning early childhood practice in the Australian context. 
5. Analyse representations of childhood and effectively communicate concepts of the diversity of children’s lived experiences, child agency children as competent and capable learners, holistic, integrated, and interconnected approaches, cultural responsiveness, and assessment and evaluation for children’s learning, development, and wellbeing. 

Subject Content

 

1. The development of Early Education and Care internationally and within Australia. The Early Childhood practitioner and teacher – the development of this role, responsibilities, skills, values, strengths, and disposition.  
2. Contexts, policies and frameworks of Early Childhood Education and Care in contemporary Australia. 
3. Historical, cultural, and philosophical perspectives on the image of the child. Christian Worldview and Imago Dei and the integration of biblical principles and frameworks. 
4. The theory and philosophy of approaches to Education and Care. 
5. Definitions of play, theories of play and the different types of play 
6. Engaging children in play, the role of intentional teaching, and assessment of play-based pedagogies.  
7. The relationship between the history of early education and care, understanding of pedagogy and how this influences practice and curriculum and learning program design. 
8. Designing curriculum plans that integrate theory, philosophy and best practice. 
9. Current research trends in the EC sector 
10. Considering ethics in the EC professional. 
11. The history and idea of pedagogy 
12. Worldwide approaches and ideas relating to early childhood 

This course may be offered in the following formats

• Face to face on site (extensive) 
• ​​Face to face on site (intensive) 
• ​​E-learning (online/asynchronous) 
• ​​E-learning (online/synchronous) 

Please check the timetable to see when this subject will next be offered at Alphacrucis University College.

Assessment Methods

1. Exam (30%)
2. Presentation (25%)
3. Major Project (45%)

Prescribed Text

Textbook 
Arthur, L., Beecher, B., Death, E., Dockett, S., & Farmer, S. (2021). Programming and planning in early childhood settings (8th ed.). Cengage Learning Australia.  

Check with the instructor each semester before purchasing any textbooks