Course overview
This course will develop knowledge and understanding of early childhood pedagogies to support young children's language learning. Students will develop expertise in the learning of languages in early childhood settings by learning contemporary theories and pedagogies appropriate to early language learning. Students will analyse contemporary theories and practices in supporting children in the learning of English and learning through English in early childhood settings, in addition to their home languages. They will focus on developing an intercultural, play-based orientation in teaching and learning, and in working with children and families/ carers who bring diverse languages and cultures to the education experiences of their children. Students will consider the nature of learning in teaching early learners within a multilingual orientation, including critically evaluating the role of resources such as digital technologies.
Course learning outcomes
- Explain and apply principles of intercultural, play-based pedagogies for language learning in early childhood
- Critically evaluate the role and appropriateness of resources such as digital technologies for early childhood language learning
- Describe theories and best practice relevant to the learning of English in addition to multilingual children's home languages, in early childhood settings
- Analyse contemporary theories and practices in working interculturally with linguistically and culturally diverse families/ carers in early childhood settings