Module Details

Module Code: HLST N8163
Full Title: Contemporary Practice: the early years perspective
Valid From:: Semester 1 - 2022/23 ( September 2022 )
Language of Instruction:English
Duration: 1 Semester
Credits:: 5
Module Owner:: Myles Hackett
Departments: Unknown
Module Description: This module considers some of the most dominant discourses on major contemporary issues that impact on the work of early years educators.
 
Module Learning Outcome
On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to:
# Module Learning Outcome Description
MLO1 Debate skilfully on contemporary issues influencing the early years policy agenda
MLO2 Evaluate the significance of contemporary pedagogical trends in early years education and care
MLO3 Critically analyse contrasting perspectives affecting pedagogical practices
MLO4 Explore ways in which boundaries of early childhood studies and practices are expanding
Pre-requisite learning
Module Recommendations
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is strongly recommended before enrolment in this module. You may enrol in this module if you have not acquired the recommended learning but you will have considerable difficulty in passing (i.e. achieving the learning outcomes of) the module. While the prior learning is expressed as named DkIT module(s) it also allows for learning (in another module or modules) which is equivalent to the learning specified in the named module(s).
No recommendations listed
 
Module Indicative Content
The policy agenda
Changing Landscape of Early Childhood service provision in Ireland, pertinent policy developments to include stakeholder and legislative requirements, compliance, conceptualisations of children and childhood
Contemporary pedagogical trends
Informed practice, methodical perspectives, the international picture, multidisciplinary teams, diversity and inclusion, respecting the voice of the child, social justice, team working, curricular and quality issues, anti-bias curriculum: pedagogical voice of the educator, leadership and entrepreneurial roles.
Expansion of boundaries
Research spaces, differing perspectives, analytical thinking, digital age: impact of technology on development of the child, emerging issues, contradictions and possibilities
Module Assessment
Assessment Breakdown%
Course Work100.00%
Module Special Regulation
 

Assessments

Part-time

Course Work
Assessment Type Written Report % of Total Mark 40
Marks Out Of 100 Pass Mark 40
Timing n/a Learning Outcome 2,3,4
Duration in minutes 0
Assessment Description
Choose a contemporary practice that may present a challenge to professionals working in the early years sector. Submit an abstract (400 to 450 words) of the topic which will be presented (Symposium style) at a later stage in the semester.
Assessment Type Presentation % of Total Mark 60
Marks Out Of 100 Pass Mark 40
Timing n/a Learning Outcome 1,4
Duration in minutes 15
Assessment Description
The student will make an oral presentation based on their chosen contemporary topic, with exposition supported by current and appropriately synthesised research.
No Project
No Practical
No Final Examination
Reassessment Requirement
No repeat examination
Reassessment of this module will be offered solely on the basis of coursework and a repeat examination will not be offered.

DKIT reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment

 

Module Workload

This module has no Full-time workload.
Workload: Part-time
Workload Type Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Lecture Contact Mix of oral presentation, DVD clips, discussion and small group work used to convey critical information (overview of the main themes, supporting development of understanding of the issues) to a full class group. Lectures will be delivered using a combination of face to face and on-line delivery. Every Week 1.00 1
Online (Contact) Contact No Description Every Week 1.00 1
Directed Reading Non Contact Students are guided to materials that provide additional relevant interpretation on topics covered in class and supplementary reading to enhance understanding. Once per semester 2.53 38
Independent Study Non Contact Student responsibility to organise and manage own study space and time and commitment to supplement classroom input with additional reading and interpretative reflection Once per semester 5.00 75
Total Weekly Learner Workload 9.53
Total Weekly Contact Hours 2.00
 
Module Resources
Supplementary Book Resources
  • Pugh, G. & Duffy, B.. (2013), Contemporary Issues in the Early Years, 6th Edition. Sage Publishing, United Kingdom, [ISBN: 9781446266410].
Recommended Article/Paper Resources
  • Department of Children and Youth Affairs. (2016), Diversity, Equality and Inclusion Charter and Guidelines for Early Childhood.
  • University of East London, Cass School of Education and University of Ghent. (2011), CoRe. Competence requirements in Early Childhood Education and Care.
  • Urban, M., Robson, S., Scacchi, V. University of Roehampton. Early Childhood Research Centre (ECRC).. (2017), Review of Occupational Role Profiles in Ireland in Early Childhood Education and Care.
Other Resources