7701.10 - Child Development and Learning


Course number
7701.10
Title
Child Development and Learning
ECTS
12
Purpose
In this course, students will - learn to understand the distinguishing marks of research into pre-schooling and school preparation - get thorough knowledge of fundamental theories on how children learn and develop, and on how they are shaped, reared and socialised in kindergartens and schools - become aware of the prevalent pedagogical and didactic theories in both the school and kindergarten discourse - get a clear understanding of the tasks of social educators who work with children between the ages of 5 and 7, and of teachers who work with children between the ages of 7 and 9 - become aware of how a social educator’s or teacher’s attitude and approach to her or his vocation may influence a child’s development, learning and well-being.
Content
The course consists of four thematic and inter-related parts. 1. Formation and Learning Students will acquire insight into how kindergartens and schools shape and rear children between the ages of 6 and 9 and into the dominant views on child formation that are central to the laws for day institutions and primary schools. 2. Children’s Developmental Stages Students will study a variety of theories on how children between 6 and 9 years of age develop, learn, and on how they are shaped. Children differ, and the students will focus on 1) why children differ and 2) how social educators/teachers can reach children with different personalities, interests and levels of competence. 3. Didactic Learning Processes in Pre-Schools and School Preparation Students will acquire knowledge of which pedagogical and didactic procedures and methods are central in the kindergarten and school milieus respectively. 4. Social Competences Students will define and distinguish between theories on the elements that influence the social development of children/pupils. In addition, they will research how children’s social competence influences their well-being and learning competence.
Assessment method
Students will write a major paper. The paper is to be written individually. Further information on the topic and the paper itself will be provided in class. Internal examiners will be used. Grades will be awarded on a Passed/Not passed basis.