Early Childhood in a Global Context

This unit (ECE4002) invites students to connect their knowledge of Early Childhood to the wider global context. It explores the ways that Early childhood is understood in different cultural contexts. Students analyse some of the large-scale research reports on the state of early childhood around the world. e.g. OECD, UNESCO, UNICEF and connect these reports to the concept of quality. The unit has the well-being of children, and the ways we understand and advocate for this, at the heart of the unit. In this unit students will develop a richer understanding of cultural and ethical diversity, and the values and beliefs that impact this diversity within an Early Childhood setting. They will theorise their understandings by reference to research and scholarship on the global context of early childhood, and within established ethical frameworks. Students will further develop their communication skills by enriching their understanding of cultural meaning, and will examine global context as a way to developing deeper understanding of community and personal values.