EDF3506

Cultural studies (early childhood) ( 6 points, SCA Band 0, 0.125 EFTSL)

Leader: Dr H Tonyan

Offered:
Peninsula Second semester 2006 (Day)

Synopsis: In this unit staff and students will act as co-researchers examining the contexts in which children develop, including family, kinship and early education. Starting from examining their own cultural heritage, students will explore a range of cultural communities. Consideration of the complexity and diversity of cultural communities in Australia will provide the students with understandings and insight into the practices and value systems operating within and across the communities. Concepts of tolerance, equity, disadvantage, privilege, discrimination, prejudice and ethnocentrism in relation to early childhood education provision will be examined.

Objectives: During the semester staff and students will form into a community of practice. It is anticipated that as a result of this process you will demonstrate an increased awareness of self as a member of a cultural and linguistic group in relation to other cultural and linguistic groups within Australian society; a more informed appreciation of the complexity and diversity of various cultural groups represented in Australian society; deeper understandings about the way in which social, political, economic and physical events shape culture; increased knowledge and understandings of contemporary Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples; a capacity to critique the nature of contemporary Australian society; an appreciation of the roles and responsibilities of educators working in diverse communities; the knowledge and skills to work with children and families in culturally appropriate ways.

Assessment: Written assignment (2000 words): 50% + Reflective Journal (2000 words): 50%

Contact Hours: 2 hrs per week