Overview

This module explores children's experience of growing up in the contemporary world. It identifies the milestones in a child’s early development and highlights the impact of the child's environment. Key issues such as the family, health and friendship are explored and related to contemporary concerns about childhood. The module also provides opportunities for students to observe young children’s development in appropriate Early Years settings, with a focus on their cognitive, social and emotional development and to discuss the interaction between the child's development and experiences.

There is an emphasis on: • the importance of the learning environment to their understanding and development; • the role of relationships in the child's world; • the way in which children come to understand right and wrong; • how the 'self' is shaped and understood; • considering the importance of health, well-being and happiness; • the family's role in children's worlds; • the impact of issues such as poverty, obesity and 'otherness' • observing young children’s interactions and investigating the influence of adults and peers on the psycho-social development of young children through case studies and through practical explorations and observations in a relevant setting.

DBS Check compulsory to enable you to follow this module.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -D-, D, D+: A satisfactory understanding and appreciation of the main developmental steps in the individual's early life and the interaction between the individual and his environment. A satisfactory appreciation of the interactions between family, society, environment and the child in shaping the child's understanding and experience.

-good -C-, C, C+: A good understanding and appreciation of the main developmental steps in the individual's early life and the interaction between the individual and his environment. A good appreciation of the interactions between family, society, environment and the child in shaping the child's understanding and experience.

-excellent -A-, A, A+, A, A*: A comprehensive understanding and appreciation of the main developmental steps in the individual's early life and the interaction between the individual and his environment, and the ability to discuss the field critically and analytically. A comprehensive and detailed appreciation of the interactions between family, society, environment and the child in shaping the child's understanding and experience.

Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate an understanding of the influence and importance of environment and society on a child’s personal, emotional, social and cognitive development, well-being, and happiness.

• Demonstrate an understanding of the theoretical accounts of a child’s early development.

• Identify and interpret evidence of young children's experience and understanding in a child-care setting.

• Identify the main issues that can affect a child's development and experiences.

• Identify ways in which children interact with the world around them to create a contemporary childhood.