EDF6641

The social and political contexts of early childhood

(EDU)

Prof M Fleer

12 points + 3 hours per week + Second semester + Peninsula and/or Clayton (depending on enrolments)

Synopsis: An analysis of the relationship between the political, economic and social factors influencing contemporary early childhood education and care. An examination of national and international developments in policy, practice and research. The construction and reconstruction of early childhood education and care will be critiqued using a range of theoretical perspectives. Knowledge construction and its ratification within and external to the profession will be considered. Cross-cultural perspectives and global developments will be explored in relation to local enactments of policy and practice and insights into future orientations for early childhood education and care will be constructed.

Assessment: Seminar or conference presentation and paper (3600 words): 60% + Structured journal (2400 words): 40%