Monash University Handbook 2011 Postgraduate - Unit

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

Synopsis

The unit will provide an overview of early childhood curriculum across settings and across the 0 - 5 years age range in the context of wider curriculum theory. Ways of engaging in planning and on-going evaluation, and the importance of doing so, will assist students to become effective teachers. Several examples of specific curricula will be included for study and five days of visits and observations of early childhood services will be included.

Objectives

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

• plan effectively for children aged 3-5 years in a variety of early childhood settings;
• identify key elements of appropriate curriculum; be familiar with a number of ways of planning and be able to match those to particular children's needs and /or contexts;
• appreciate the implications of culture, community, family and individual issues for curriculum; and
• summarise key points on contemporary thinking about curriculum theory.

Assessment

Task 1: 2000 word essay (40%). Task 2: A 3000 word written report (60%).

Chief examiner(s)

Ms Susie Butler

Contact hours

2 hours per week