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This course introduces students to a critique of early years education using postmodern theories to analyse research, teaching practices, and New Zealand educational contexts for the very young child.
Many of us have spent our lives avoiding theory. But did you know that the best work with children has come from theory, is informed by theory, and creates new theory? If we are to continue to improve early years education for young children, those of us working and studying in this area need to be able to understand and build on current theories."This course has challenged the previous assumptions I had about children, how they learn and what is deemed acceptable for them to learn and I am now rethinking and reconstructing these views" (EDEM651 student, 2016)."As a result of this course, I will endeavour to challenge the status quo, look/seek to understand what is in front of me and dismantle the stable base I have previously worked by" (EDEM651 student, 2016)."I've thoroughly enjoyed the course - hard work, and lots of thinking - it has definitely stretched my brain! But such a great challenge! Thanks so much for a brilliant course!" (EDEM651 student, 2016).
1. Identify key issues in early years education in New Zealand and internationally; 2. Position practices, policies and politics in the early years within a theoretical debate;3. Apply critical thinking to early years education;4. Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of key early years theorists and theoretical frameworks;5. Critique evidence-based research;6. Present well researched information in a convincingly and appropriately argued manner;7. Plan future research or policy developments in the early years.
Subject to approval of the Head of School
Nicola Surtees
Jackson, A. Y., & Mazzei, L. A; Thinking with theory in qualitative research ; Oxon, UK: Routledge, 2012.
Domestic fee $1,775.00
International Postgraduate fees
* All fees are inclusive of NZ GST or any equivalent overseas tax, and do not include any programme level discount or additional course-related expenses.
For further information see School of Educational Studies and Leadership .