This sociology module introduces the student to the sociology of childhood and examines key sociological perspectives as related to early childhood. It will introduce students to the historical, philosophical and cultural context in which childhood and early childhood education are located. This is a core subject of the course as it introduces students to the construction of childhood as a separate and distinct stage of the life course, with a focus on the ideological construction of children as dependent and in need of protection. This will be contrasted with a focus on the interpretive tradition through an exploration of the agency of children, with a particular focus on children’s experiences of early childhood care and education services and their engagement in play, leisure and technology activities. The student will examine the construction of social identities asking are children passive receptors of culture, or social agents, although less powerful that adults? A focus will be placed on the processes of socialisation, and four fundamental aspects of identity; class, culture, gender and ethnicity will be explored. This will provide students with a knowledge of significant components of a child’s identity. It provides a foundation to allow students support the child’s identify and belonging while recognising ways in which discrimination and inequality may be structured through the construction of identity.
Introduction to sociology
Development of a sociological imagination
Sociology of Childhood
Historical views of childhood and the sociological construction of childhood. Socialisation perspective. The child as dependent and in need of protection. The child as a social actor Children's agency and children's voice. Social position of children.
Social Identities
Socialisation, identity and interaction Understanding socialisation Identity and interaction Socialisation and family relations Building social worlds Gender and sexuality Understanding sex and gender Gender socialisation and early years services Gender differentiation Patriarchy, gender stratification and sexism The gendered nature of care Race and ethnicity Constructing race and ethnicity – children’s understanding of these concepts Theories of race and ethnicity Towards assimilation and incorporation – majority and minority patterns of interaction Hybrid identities and multiculturalism Diversity and inclusion in early childhood
Child as a social actor
Early Childhood Care and Education/Education Services Daycare and its implications Children’s experiences of after-school care in Ireland Leisure, Play and Technology Play and leisure activities Play and agency Technology, Consumerism and Social exclusion Children as Researchers Children’s Rights Commoditisation of play and leisure
This module is a mixture of face to face lectures, tutorials and self directed learning. Students have the opportunity to do independent research and present their work to the class. They engage in experiential exercises and reflect on theory to practice.
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Formal Examination | 60 |
| Other Assessment(s) | 40 |