This module is designed to build on the learners’ understanding of pedagogy in early childhood education and care and to develop an understanding of the factors that influence curriculum development, implementation, assessment and evaluation. There will be a strong emphasis on understanding relevant ethical issues and developing skills for effective pedagogical practice. The module will introduce learners to pedagogical practice in early childhood settings with an emphasis on how early childhood pedagogy is embedded in the natural contexts of childhood. The module aims to explore the different pedagogical approaches that enhance curriculum for children from birth to six years. Students will develop an understanding of how Aistear (2009) the Early Childhood Curriculum Framework and current quality practice guidelines can support quality early childhood care and education
The Importance of Effective Pedagogy in ECEC
Examining Pedagogy in Early Childhood and exploring key pedagogical strategies. Researching effective pedagogy in the early years (EPPE) and Study of Pedagogical Effectiveness in Early Learning (SPEEL)
Professional Practice
Collaborative Partnerships,Reflection and Evaluation,Professionalism,Ethical practice.
Planning and Assessment
Planning for the child’s learning journey,The Role of Assessment in Early Childhood Education and Care,Principles supporting Early Childhood Curriculum,Exploration of Emergent Curriculum,Purpose and Effectiveness of Assessment.
Regulatory and Inspection Processes in ECEC
Tusla Inspections, DES Early Years Educational Inspections, Better Start Mentoring Service, Access and Inclusion Model
Supporting Frameworks and Policy Documents
Aistear and Siolta Practice Guide, Aistear in Action Initiative: Final Report (2013), First 5: A Whole-of-Government Strategy for Babies, Young Children and their Families , Siolta (2006) The National Quality Framework for Early Childhood Education, Aistear (2009) The Early Childhood Curriculum Framework, National Strategy on Children and Young People’s Participation in Decision-Making (2015-2020),Code of Professional Responsibilities and Code of Ethicsfor Early Years Educators (2019)
This module is delivered through face to face lectures with smaller tutorials held weekly. The module enables the students to evaluate their pedagogy, reflecting on their previous placement. The students consider the role of the curriculum and how it impacts on their pedagogy using the floorbooks they developed when on placement with group and individual reflections on their professional practice, ethics, curriculum, planning and assessing of children. The students engage in both directed and self-directed learning in this module.
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Other Assessment(s) | 100 |