EDN4425

The junior primary specialist

Ms A Kennedy

8 points - 3 hours per week - First semester - Peninsula

Objectives Upon successful completion of this subject, students should have gained knowledge and understanding of the unique developmental stages specific to children in the 5-8 age span; the principles underlying a developmental approach in junior primary schools; the important changes and developments occurring in junior primary schools in Victoria; some specific topics of relevance to junior primary schools including retention, national profiles, testing, transition programs; the relationship between research, expert opinion and the changes which occur in schools. Students should be able to demonstrate the skills of presenting a seminar discussion for the group which reflects wide reading and personal reflection on a topic relevant to junior primary schools; responding in lecture discussions to questions and challenges that are raised. Students should have developed an appreciation of the need for unique program, environmental and teaching responses to children in the junior primary grades; the importance of reading current journal materials and reflecting on their practice in order to be an informed educator.

Synopsis Students will consider the importance of designing and implementing developmentally appropriate programs to meet the individual needs of pupils in the junior primary grades. Students will examine the program, environmental and resource implications of these considerations. There will be particular emphasis on the role of parents in the education of young children and the articulation of early childhood services.

Assessment Research project (3000 words) and class presentation: 60% - Literature review (2000 words): 40%

Recommended texts

Bredekamp J and Rosegrant T Reaching potentials: Appropriate to curriculum and assessment for young children NAEYC, 1992
DSE Ministerial review of school entry age DSE, 1992

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