This topic presents a comprehensive picture of the lives of young children, and in particular how these lives are embedded within a social and emotional context. Students will be expected to become familiar with different constructions of the child, drawing on theoretical perspectives from sociology, psychology and childhood studies. Critically analysing this material, they will learn how to guide young children's learning, from infancy through to middle childhood, and do so with sensitivity to the familial, cultural and linguistic context which shapes such learning.
Drawing on their own research and inquiry processes, students will develop a complex understanding of what motivates children's learning, their rights and needs, and also their reactions to that learning, such as difficult behaviours. Based on this expertise, they will evaluate how best to plan, assess and document children's activities, and manage children's behaviour with respect, compassion and thoughtfulness.
This topic aims to:
Timetable details for 2021 are no longer published.