PED6424 - Enhancing the Early Years Curriculum (3-7)

Objectives:

On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
Demonstrate secure curriculum knowledge and understanding of approaches to the EYFS and National Curriculum, and of any national priorities in these areas;
Reflect systematically and critically on the effectiveness of lessons and approaches to teaching and learning across curriculum areas, including application of knowledge gained from school-based training;
Critically evaluate the application of critical thinking skills, creativity of the child and creative approaches within EYFS and Key Stage 1 settings, and reflect on how these approaches promote good progress;
Recognise diversity within EYFS and school contexts and evaluate the opportunities and challenges presented by this;
Justify a scholarly and professional perspective on educational practices, reflecting on and exemplifying from school-based training.

Content:

Students will gain an understanding of different Curricular Models and design in both EYFS and Key stage 1. They will consider the effectiveness of a rich, broad and balanced curriculum across both stages. Through exploring creative approaches to curriculum design, students will consider cross-curricular learning and the impact this has on pupil progress and in supporting a seamless transition from the EYFS into Key stage 1.

Learning and Teaching Information:

Lecture sessions will include exploring the development of effective pedagogy of early childhood as well as pedagogical documentation. Seminar workshop sessions will be used to promote active and collaborative learning using practical activities to apply theory into practice. Current reviews of good practice and analysis of creative approaches in partnership schools will inform the priorities for the content of this module. Students will be expected to engage with workshops both in University and off site.

Workshops and seminars
Hours: 70
Intended Group Size: 40

Guided independent study
Hours: 330

Further details relating to assessment
The case study will incorporate an extended evaluation of one model of curriculum design.

Other relevant matters
This module will further develop and enhance students’ relevant subject specific and age phase curriculum knowledge requirements taken from the Core Content Framework (2019); so that by the end of the programme students can demonstrate they have met the following Teachers’ Standards (DfE, 2012):

1. Set high expectations which inspire, motivate and challenge pupils
2. Promote good progress and outcomes by pupils
3. Demonstrate good subject and curriculum knowledge
5. Adapt teaching to respond to the strengths and needs of all pupils
6. Make accurate and productive use of assessment
8. Fulfil wider professional responsibilities

Assessment:

001 English, Maths, Science synoptic essay & formative plan; 4,000 words; mid semester 1 50%
002 Case study; 4,000 word; end of semester 2 50%

Fact File

Module Coordinator - Anna Park
Level - 6
Credit Value - 40
Pre-Requisites - NONE
Semester(s) Offered - 6YLQ6YLQ6YLQ6YLQ

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