Monash University Handbook 2011 Undergraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Synopsis

This unit will introduce students to a range of ways to identify, investigate, and make professional judgments about children's learning and development in early childhood settings, including homes, schools, and early childhood services. An emphasis on assessment for learning (rather than assessment of learning) will be taken. Students will participate in a range of assessment activities, using a variety of digital and other tools. Students will learn how to communicate with families about children's learning and development, and how to involve children in making judgments about their own learning and their learning goals.

Objectives

Upon successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

1. systematically observe and document learning episodes using a range of technologies;
2. make explicit links between observed behaviours and children's development of specific knowledge, skills, attitudes, and learning dispositions;
3. express assessment information in a way that is accessible to children and their families;
4. involve children in reflecting on their learning and identifying their own learning goals, and
5. reflect critically on contemporary assessment discourse in schools and early childhood services.

Assessment

Assessment task 1: One portfolio item demonstrating an assessment technique (2,000 words or equivalent, 50%).
Assessment task 2: One portfolio item demonstrating reporting to children and/or parents (2,000 words or equivalent, 50%).

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Corine Rivalland

Contact hours

3 contact hours per week, 9 hours private study including readings, completion of set tasks and self-directed learning.