Course overview
This course develops understanding of dominant historical discourses in the field of early childhood education, and introduces multiple perspectives on theory, research and practice as alternative discourses and pedagogical approaches.
- Historical Overview
- Theoretical Perspectives
- Contemporary Issues and Practice
Course learning outcomes
- Extend existing understandings of childhood taking into account how these understandings developed at different historical periods
- Critically analyse the historical development of understandings of childhood, how we know about children, and how these understandings resonate in contemporary Australian contexts
- Identify contemporary theories that have shaped and continue to shape understandings of children and childhood, diversity, difference and inclusivity
- Apply critical, post-structural, feminist and post-human theoretical understandings to critically analyse, reflect and design inclusive professional practice in early childhood care and education settings
- Apply knowledge of contemporary theories to respond to contemporary issues in early childhood education concerning equity and social inclusion