Университетский колледж Плимута, Св. Марка и Св. Джона (UCP), BA (Hons), Early Years (Child Development)

Modules include: contemporary education issues (20 credits): the module aims to help the student to gain a systematic knowledge and critical understanding of children and childhood nationally and globally; the student explores critically the links between ethics, politics, culture and ideology in children’s lives and their families; they consider rights, diversity, equity and inclusion in relation to working with children and families; every child matters: policy into practice 1 (20 credits): the 2nd module aims to give the student a systematic and comprehensive knowledge and critical understanding of the every child matters policy and how it applies to early years settings; the student has the opportunity to discuss and debate the importance of, and the challenges and constraints of, multi-agency and interagency working in order to meet the needs of children and families; the ability to plan for meeting and working effectively and in collaboration with parents, carers and other agencies are considered; historical and philosophical perspectives of play in early years settings (20 credits): this module aims to assist the student in developing their critical awareness of key issues of play; the student gains knowledge of different types of play and the role of the adult including the skills of observation and analysis in relation to play; children learning and developing (20 credits): in this module the student develops a critical understanding of how to effectively implement learning and development in the early years Foundation Stage and examines how children develop as learners; independent enquiry (40 credits): this last module allows the student to undertake a small-scale research project on a subject of their choice; the student examines ethical and social considerations, particularly those related to research with children, and the assessment of validity and reliability in particular research projects; research methodology is discussed including: writing the enquiry proposal; use of literature; framing appropriate questions to achieve a solution; analysis of data; drawing conclusions and the implications for further development.

This course is designed for those working in early years settings and includes work-based tasks; the student attends the University College for 1 day a week and completes 5 modules; sessions are supported by tasks related to work place study, reading and reflection.