Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives Upon successful completion of this subject, students should have knowledge and understanding of the various care services available for children in Victoria and the funding or sponsorship involved for each service; the complex role of being a child care worker, especially working as part of a staff team; some of the issues which challenge children's services in Australia; the unique needs of children in extended care programs; the critical factors in the provision of quality child care programs. Students should have the skills to observe, plan, implement and evaluate appropriate programs for children in care; work as a competent member of a child care staff team whilst on field placement; discuss and analyse the issues relating to children's services with confidence and factual information to support their arguments; and recognise quality services for young children.
Synopsis This subject will examine the funding and organisational features of child care services in Victoria at Commonwealth, State and local government levels. Current issues and concerns regarding the provision of child care services will also be examined. Students will participate in teaching practice which will involve the planning and implementation of appropriate programs to meet the needs of children in a range of child care services. Particular emphasis will be placed on the professional skills required in both programming and interpersonal relationships, in order to provide a quality service to young children and their families.
Assessment Written assignment (1500 words): 40% + Examination: 60% + Hurdle: Satisfactory standard in field experience and satisfactory participation in workshops