Module Code: | EC8909 | ECTS Credits: | 5 |
Overview
This module is based on an Erasmus + research project that developed this module based on exchange of practice, creation of tools and resources for improvement and measurement of process quality, through a research team of academics, ECE educators and primary school teachers locally, nationally, and at European level. Holistic ECE values ‘the thinking and the feeling life’ and promotes a vision of children as active, competent, playful learners. The most up-to-date understandings of how children learn show the interrelatedness of domains of development, and the importance of drawing on children’s own talents, emotions, experiences, cultures and interests (Hayes et al., 2017). This module will translate these concepts into pedagogy through emphasising constructivist, participatory methodologies taking children’s voices into account.
This module gives students space to engage in the conceptual reflection necessary for true ‘expertise’ in constructivist-inspired practices (Olsen & Bruer, 1996). It is hoped to influence the thinking of students and to affect their practice, by engaging them in promoting creative, constructivist practices. Ryan & O’Toole (2013) refer to this as the development of ‘perspectives’ but note that support may be needed for theoretical & conceptual knowledge to be rendered ‘useful’ for education.
In addition the module will focus on the micro moments in curriculum such as, innovative practical measures including.