In this unit students will critically explore a range of philosophies and approaches in early childhood including Reggio, Montessori, Steiner, Forest, High Scope and Developmentally Appropriate Practice. Students will develop curriculum programs and their own personal teaching philosophy. Students will also examine philosophies of design and design both indoor and outdoor learning spaces. This unit will include visits to Montessori, Steiner and Blue Gum community schools.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
1. Analyse different approaches and philosophies in early childhood;
2. Design and justify playscapes using research informed practice; and
3. Articulate and justify their own philosophy of early childhood education.

Graduate attributes

1. UC graduates are professional - employ up-to-date and relevant knowledge and skills
1. UC graduates are professional - communicate effectively
2. UC graduates are global citizens - make creative use of technology in their learning and professional lives
2. UC graduates are global citizens - behave ethically and sustainably in their professional and personal lives
3. UC graduates are lifelong learners - reflect on their own practice, updating and adapting their knowledge and skills for continual professional and academic development
3. UC graduates are lifelong learners - adapt to complexity, ambiguity and change by being flexible and keen to engage with new ideas

Prerequisites

Must have passed 24 credit points and be enrolled in an early childhood education undergraduate course.

Corequisites

None.

Incompatible units

None.

Equivalent units

None.

Assumed knowledge

None.