Notice
As part of Phase 3 of our return to campus plan, most units will now run tutorials, seminars and other small group activities on campus, and most will keep an online version available to those students unable to return or those who choose to continue their studies online.
To check the availability of face-to-face and online activities for your unit, please go to timetable viewer. To check detailed information on unit assessments visit your unit's iLearn space or consult your unit convenor.
Unit convenor and teaching staff |
Unit convenor and teaching staff
Unit Convenor and Lecturer
Helen Little
Contact via via iLearn Dialogue
29 WW, Room 235
By appointment
Tutor
Anne-Maree Tonkin
Contact via via iLearn dialogue
Tutor
Vanna Lockwood
Contact via via iLearn dialogue
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Credit points |
Credit points
10
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Prerequisites |
Prerequisites
(EDST2000 or EDST200 or EDST2010 or EDST201 or ECHP2220 or ECHP222) and (ECHE220 or ECHE2200)
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Corequisites |
Corequisites
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Co-badged status |
Co-badged status
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Unit description |
Unit description
This unit incorporates both theoretical and practical aspects of teaching and working in early childhood contexts. Students in this unit will explore and examine theories of learning and develop a critical understanding of (i) observing, recording and planning for diverse learners, (ii) the outdoors as a learning space for young children, and (iii) embedding sustainability practices in everyday teaching. Students will continue to develop their teaching skills and complete 20 days of Professional Experience in an early childhood setting
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Information about important academic dates including deadlines for withdrawing from units are available at https://www.mq.edu.au/study/calendar-of-dates
On successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:
Assessment Presentation and Submission Guidelines
Please follow these guidelines when you submit each assignment:
Draft Submissions & Turnitin Originality Reports
Please note:
Assignment extensions and late penalties
Requesting a re-assessment of an assignment
If you have evidence that your task has been incorrectly assessed against the grade descriptors you can request a re-mark. To request a re-mark you need to contact the unit convenor within 7 days of the date of return of the assignment and provide a detailed assessment of your script against the task criteria. Evidence from your assignment must be provided to support your judgements.
Note:
University policy on grading
Criteria for awarding grades for assessment tasks
Assignments will be awarded grades ranging from HD to F according to guidelines set out in the University's Grading Policy. The following descriptive criteria are included for your information.
Descriptive Criteria for awarding grades in the unit
In order to meet the unit outcomes and successfully pass this unit, students must make a genuine attempt at all assessment tasks. Where any submitted assessment task is considered to be unsatisfactory in this regard, the highest possible final grade that can be awarded for the unit will be 45.
Students will be awarded grades ranging from HD to F according to guidelines set out in the policy: https://staff.mq.edu.au/work/strategy-planning-and-governance/university-policies-and-procedures/policies/assessment-in-effect-from-session-2-2016
The following generic grade descriptors provide university-wide standards for awarding final grades.
Grade |
Descriptor |
HD (High Distinction) |
Provides consistent evidence of deep and critical understanding in relation to the learning outcomes. There is substantial originality and insight in identifying, generating and communicating competing arguments, perspectives or problem solving approaches; critical evaluation of problems, their solutions and their implications; creativity in application as appropriate to the discipline. |
D (Distinction) |
Provides evidence of integration and evaluation of critical ideas, principles and theories, distinctive insight and ability in applying relevant skills and concepts in relation to learning outcomes. There is demonstration of frequent originality in defining and analysing issues or problems and providing solutions; and the use of means of communication appropriate to the discipline and the audience. |
Cr (Credit) |
Provides evidence of learning that goes beyond replication of content knowledge or skills relevant to the learning outcomes. There is demonstration of substantial understanding of fundamental concepts in the field of study and the ability to apply these concepts in a variety of contexts; convincing argumentation with appropriate coherent justification; communication of ideas fluently and clearly in terms of the conventions of the discipline. |
P (Pass). |
Provides sufficient evidence of the achievement of learning outcomes. There is demonstration of understanding and application of fundamental concepts of the field of study; routine argumentation with acceptable justification; communication of information and ideas adequately in terms of the conventions of the discipline. The learning attainment is considered satisfactory or adequate or competent or capable in relation to the specified outcomes |
F (Fail) |
Does not provide evidence of attainment of learning outcomes. There is missing or partial or superficial or faulty understanding and application of the fundamental concepts in the field of study; missing, undeveloped, inappropriate or confusing argumentation; incomplete, confusing or lacking communication of ideas in ways that give little attention to the conventions of the discipline. |
Note: If you fail a unit with a professional experience component, the fail grade will be on your transcript irrespective of the timing of the placement.
Results
Results shown in iLearn, or released directly by your Unit Convenor, are not confirmed as they are subject to final approval by the University. Once approved, final results will be sent to your student email address and will be made available in eStudent. For more information visit ask.mq.edu.au.
Withdrawing from this unit
If you are considering withdrawing from this unit, please seek academic advice via https://ask.mq.edu.au before doing so as this unit may be a co-requisite or prerequisite for units in the following sessions and may impact on your progression through the degree.
Professional Experience Unit Placement Expectations
To be eligible to commence the block placement component of this unit, students
In order to meet the Professional Experience placement expectations of this unit, students must:
Submission of Family & Children’s Records
Family and Children’s Records
Some assessment tasks require students to submit records about families and about children and their learning. It is expected that the records submitted are original, authentic, adheres to the ethical practices of the Early Childhood Australia Code of Ethics (2016) and is the work of the student. Issues with the authenticity of such records will be investigated for possible forgery (see Fabrication in the IEC Academic Honesty Handbook). Please note that submitted records can only be used once for assessment purposes.
Confidentiality
Students must respect the need for sensitivity and confidentially and ensure that privacy obligations are met. There should be nothing in assessment submissions that identifies a centre or school. Use only the first name for children, families and staff. Do not record details that enable identification of the site, and of the adults or children.
Name | Weighting | Hurdle | Due |
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Planning for Diversity | 40% | No | 7 May 2021 |
Professional Experience Placement | 0% | Yes | Weeks 7, 10, 11 & 12 |
Teaching in Practice | 60% | No | 6 June 2021 |
Assessment Type 1: Field work task
Indicative Time on Task 2: 20 hours
Due: 7 May 2021
Weighting: 40%
Situational analysis: Analysis of aspects of diversity and difference that will form the basis for teaching decisions (10 pages).
Assessment Type 1: Field work task
Indicative Time on Task 2: 55 hours
Due: Weeks 7, 10, 11 & 12
Weighting: 0%
This is a hurdle assessment task (see assessment policy for more information on hurdle assessment tasks)
20 day placement in early childhood setting
Assessment Type 1: Field work task
Indicative Time on Task 2: 20 hours
Due: 6 June 2021
Weighting: 60%
Work Samples: Evidence of cycle of planning for • Outdoor learning environment • Inclusion of children with diverse learning and development needs, and Transition to school statement for two children reflecting diverse abilities (1500 words)
1 If you need help with your assignment, please contact:
2 Indicative time-on-task is an estimate of the time required for completion of the assessment task and is subject to individual variation
Required and recommended texts
Arthur, L., Beecher, B., Death, E., Dockett, S., & Farmer, S. (2018). Programming and planning in Early Childhood settings (7th ed.). Melbourne: Cengage.
Little, H., Elliott, S., & Wyver, S. (2017). Outdoor learning environments: Spaces for exploration, discovery and risk-taking in the early years. Melbourne: Routledge.
Porter (2016). Young children’s behaviour. (4th ed). Sydney: Allen & Unwin.
Note: You should have most of these texts already from other units.
Additional Readings:
In addition to readings from your texts, most weeks there will be set reading form other sources A(journal articles, book chapters) - these can be accessed via the university library Leganto unit readings. Further details are provided on iLearn.
Unit Structure
The unit comprises pre-recorded lectures and weekly 2-hour tutorials (either on campus or online) for internal students or a two-day session (either on campus or online ) for external students, as well as a schedule of weekly readings (refer to further information on iLearn). In the tutorials students will discuss issues and questions arising from the lectures and prescribed readings. They are expected to base their arguments/discussions on evidence from published research and other relevant material. Students are required to participate in small group activities and whole class discussion, to read the weekly material in advance, and to complete brief tasks either as individuals or in pairs. The weekly program for the course with the accompanying readings/ preparation is available on the unit iLearn site.
Lectures
Weekly lectures are available on the web through ECHO360 in iLearn from the following website link: http://ilearn.mq.edu.au.
Attendance Requirements
Attendance at tutorials is expected. The unit website also provides additional readings, links and materials.
Information about the unit iLearn site
This unit has a full web presence through iLearn.
Students will need regular access to a computer and the internet to complete this unit.
Weekly access to iLearn is compulsory for all students. Important assessment information will be posted there, as will other relevant unit notices and materials, including a reading template and guide to lecture note taking to assist your studies.
Various activities and materials for discussion and critical reflection are included and external students especially are encouraged to use this web component. Electronic links and suggested references will be included in the Resources section. Please check the iLearn unit regularly.
Access and technical assistance
Information for students about access to the online component of this unit is available at ilearn.mq.edu.au/login/MQ/. You will need to enter your student username and password.
Please do NOT contact the Unit Convenor regarding iLearn technical help.
No extensions will be given for any technical issues. Allow enough time for your submissions.
Assistance is available from IT Helpdesk ph: 1800 67 4357, or log a request at help.mq.edu.au. OneHelp is the online IT support service for both students and staff.
This unit requires students to use several ICT and software skills:
Support resources
Macquarie University has a range of services for students. If you are struggling with any aspect of academic life or career trajectory and skills, we have great supports within the university. Please refer to the comprehensive list of support services here.
Date (Week beginning) |
Lecture Content |
Lecturer |
Pre-recorded |
Introduction to unit
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Helen Little |
Week 1 22 Feb
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Overview of key themes - Outdoor Learning, Diversity and Difference, Transitions and Guiding Behaviour. |
Helen Little
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Week 2 1 March |
Making learning visible: Understanding children’s behaviour
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Helen Little |
Week 3 8 March |
Planning for Diversity and Difference |
Jenni Burgess
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Week 4 15 March NB: There are 2 lectures this week.
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Documenting learning with a focus on record keeping for individuals and groups
The outdoors as a learning environment – beyond running and climbing |
Luke Touhill
Helen Little
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Week 5 22 March |
Moving beyond individual experiences – planning for sessions and half days |
Helen Little |
Week 6 29 March |
Documenting children’s learning: Summative assessment
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Helen Little |
Recess 5 – 16 April |
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External On Campus Session Saturday 10 April |
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Week 7 19 April |
Professional Experience placement |
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Week 8 26 April |
Transforming the outdoor environment: Making the most of what you've got |
Helen Little |
External On Campus Session Saturday 1 May |
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Week 9 3 May |
The Transition to School Statement
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Luke Touhill |
Assessment task 1 due Friday 7 May |
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Week 10 10 May |
Professional Experience placement |
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Week 11 17 May |
Professional Experience placement
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Week 12 24 May |
Professional Experience placement |
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Week 13 31 May |
ATSI contexts – honouring land and learning from Indigenous ways.
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TBC |
Final assessment task due 6 June |
Macquarie University policies and procedures are accessible from Policy Central (https://policies.mq.edu.au). Students should be aware of the following policies in particular with regard to Learning and Teaching:
Students seeking more policy resources can visit Student Policies (https://students.mq.edu.au/support/study/policies). It is your one-stop-shop for the key policies you need to know about throughout your undergraduate student journey.
To find other policies relating to Teaching and Learning, visit Policy Central (https://policies.mq.edu.au) and use the search tool.
Macquarie University students have a responsibility to be familiar with the Student Code of Conduct: https://students.mq.edu.au/admin/other-resources/student-conduct
Results published on platform other than eStudent, (eg. iLearn, Coursera etc.) or released directly by your Unit Convenor, are not confirmed as they are subject to final approval by the University. Once approved, final results will be sent to your student email address and will be made available in eStudent. For more information visit ask.mq.edu.au or if you are a Global MBA student contact globalmba.support@mq.edu.au
School of Education Procedures
In addition, the following policies and procedures of the School of Education are applicable in this unit.
Attendance for undergraduate units
All internal tutorials begin in Week 1 of Session.
Activities completed during weekly tutorials (internal) or on campus days (external) are essential for building the core knowledge and/or skills required to demonstrate the learning outcomes of this unit [and to meet the AITSL Graduate Teacher Standards and/or ACECQA requirements]. Attendance at all tutorials or on campus days is expected and the roll will be taken.
Students are required to attend the tutorial in which they are enrolled. Any changes to tutorial enrolments must be completed officially through e-student. Please do not contact the unit convenor requesting a change.
Unit Expectations
Note: It is not the responsibility of unit staff to contact students who have failed to submit assignments. If you have any missing items of assessment, it is your responsibility to make contact with the unit convenor.
Electronic Communication
It is the student’s responsibility to check all electronic communication on a regular weekly basis. Communication may occur via:
External Students
Professional Experience Unit Placement Expectations
Students are responsible for ensuring that their evidence is current. Please be aware that you may need to update your training or credential during your program of study.
Fitness to practice requirements
Twice Fail Rule for Professional Experience Units
General Coursework Rule 10(7) stipulates that if a student fails a required unit twice in an undergraduate professional program listed on Schedule 2, they may be permanently excluded from further enrolment in that program.
Students completing a double degree will be able to continue with their other degree program provided they meet the academic progression requirements of the Academic Progression Policy.
Students completing a single Education degree (such as the BEd) are advised to seek academic advice.
Professional Experience Unit Placement Expectations
To be eligible to commence the block placement component of this unit, students
In order to meet the Professional Experience placement expectations of this unit, students must:
Macquarie University provides a range of support services for students. For details, visit http://students.mq.edu.au/support/
Learning Skills (mq.edu.au/learningskills) provides academic writing resources and study strategies to help you improve your marks and take control of your study.
The Library provides online and face to face support to help you find and use relevant information resources.
Students with a disability are encouraged to contact the Disability Service who can provide appropriate help with any issues that arise during their studies.
For all student enquiries, visit Student Connect at ask.mq.edu.au
If you are a Global MBA student contact globalmba.support@mq.edu.au
For help with University computer systems and technology, visit http://www.mq.edu.au/about_us/offices_and_units/information_technology/help/.
When using the University's IT, you must adhere to the Acceptable Use of IT Resources Policy. The policy applies to all who connect to the MQ network including students.
Unit information based on version 2021.03 of the Handbook