Latest Module Specifications
Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026
No Banner module data is available
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Description A definition of assessment as it applies to early learning is presented and analysed. The principles of assessment of early learning are emphasised. Some important perspectives influencing approaches to formative assessment of early learning are presented, such as inclusive education, reflective practice, professional identity. A range of formative assessment processes as identified in Aistear (NCCA, 2009) are explored. The Aistear guidelines on formative assessment provide the basis for discussion of practice in assessing early learning. A definition and characterisation of formative assessment in early childhood education is developed through reviewing students’ knowledge of early learning and associated theoretical constructs. Students are oriented toward approaches to assessment that are in the best interests of both children and their families and professional relationships with parents are emphasised. The what and how of assessing to support learning is explored and key strategies are analysed. Ways of studying and assessing children’s learning and development in their natural, everyday environments especially in the context of play and interactions with others are exemplified. The application of assessment processes in various areas of learning (e.g. numeracy and literacy) is studied. Advisory guidelines in relation to good practice are critiqued. Digital skills in the context of assessment are highlighted and practised. Students use these as a basis for planning and reflecting on their work in assessing early learning and development. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Learning Outcomes 1. Define assessment as it applies to early learning and to pedagogy for children aged 0-6 years. 2. Identify important principles applying to early learning and assessment, including teacher's professional identity and agency, inclusive approaches. 3. Discuss the ethical considerations that apply to the assessment of early learning, including the use of digital technology for assessment for learning. 4. Describe and evaluate the processes used for assessing early learning and the professional teacher's role in same 5. Review, interpret and reflect on children’s day-to-day activity in early education contexts for the purposes of assessing learning. 6. Critique the Aistear guidelines on formative assessment. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml |
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Indicative Content and Learning Activities
Indicative Content Please note that this indicative content is mediated through engagement in seminars and attendance is recorded. • Aistear: Guidelines for good practice. Supporting learning and development through assessment; • Key ideas in formative assessment in early childhood: Definition, contexts, theoretical constructs (agency and identity, inter-subjectivity, collaboration, co-construction, global citizenship); • What to assess in early learning; • Strategies for assessing early learning: observations; conversations; interviews; analysis of children’s drawings; • Observing children and their learning; • Using frameworks for observation e.g. Schema Theory; Developmental Progressions in mathematics; Developmental Continua (Primary Language Curriculum, NCCA 2016); • Listening to babies, toddlers and young children: Exploring creative ways of listening to individual children and developing awareness of different/preferred modes of communication; • Documentation of early learning e.g., Learning stories, portfolios, visual records; • Ethical assessment in early childhood; • Case studies in assessment of early learning; use of digital technology for assessment for learning | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Indicative Reading List Books:
Articles:
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Other Resources
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