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Module Specifications

Archived Version 2021 - 2022

Module Title
Module Code
School

Online Module Resources

NFQ level 8 Credit Rating 5
Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None
Description

In this module students conceptualise early childhood curricula and planning for all children aged birth to six years. This module builds on Year 2 modules wherein students explore frameworks such as Aistear: The Early Childhood Curriculum Framework and Síolta: The National Quality Framework as well as a range of ECE curricula. Students discuss the importance of social and situated learning while recognising children’s ability to lead their own learning. The students will explore a developmental, emergent approach to curriculum and planning. The module is framed by social constructivist theories (e.g. Vygotsky) as well as constructivist theories (e.g. Bruner). Students will discuss how adults can support the learning and development of babies, toddlers and young children. The relationship between curriculum and planning will also be explored.

Learning Outcomes

1. Analyse the changing role and impact of technology on young children's lives
2. Proficiently use a range of tools and resources suitable for early education settings
3. Explore and critically evaluate digital devices, educational software and online resources for learning and teaching in a range of early childhood settings
4. Design and create multimedia and online resources for use in early childhood settings
5. Make informed decisions about using digital tools and resources, both indoors and outdoors, taking cognisance of safety concerns
6. Demonstrate an ability to plan, design and develop technology rich experiences and environments that engage the full range of learners in early childhood settings, taking cognisance of safety recommendations



Workload Full-time hours per semester
Type Hours Description
Lecture12No Description
Workshop12No Description
Independent Study101No Description
Total Workload: 125

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

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

1
Explore current debates and discourses on the use of technology in early childhood

2
Understand the health and safety risks associated with technology use in early childhood

3
Use digital and analogue devices to plan for children's play, exploration and interactions

4
Use of digital media and devices to support children's exploration, thinking and understanding of the world

5
Explore the use of digital devices both indoors and outdoors

6
Evaluate and select appropriate educational software, online tools and apps for use with young children

7
Create digital artifacts to support young children's literacy using a variety of online tools and apps

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment% Examination Weight%
Course Work Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
1 = A resit is available for all components of the module
2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module
3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
Unavailable
Indicative Reading List

  • Arnott, L.: 2017, Digital technologies and learning in the early years., Sage, London,
  • Gray, C. & Palaiologou, I.: 2019, Early Learning in the Digital Age, Sage, London,
  • Sakr, M: 2020, Digital play in early childhood, Sage, London,
  • Donoghue, C. (Ed): 2014, Technology and Digital Media in the Early Years, Tools for Teaching and Learning., Routledge, New York,
  • Donoghue, C. (Ed): 2016, Family Engagement in the Digital Age: Early Childhood Educators as media mentors., Routledge, New York,
Other Resources

39305, Website, 0, DigiLitEY (EU Digital Literacy Working Group), http://digilitey.eu, 39306, Website, 0, Technology in Early Childhood, Erikson Institute, http://teccenter.erikson.edu, 39307, Website, 0, Fred Rogers Centre for Early Learning and Children’s Media, http://www.fredrogerscenter.org,
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