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Posted: July 11th, 2024
Study Notes: Paper Writing Sample Guides –
Assessment 1: Portfolio of Short Responses to Unit Content
Historical Influences and Contemporary Approaches in Early Childhood Education
The field of early childhood education has undergone significant changes over recent decades, profoundly impacting approaches to fostering children’s development. This paper examines these shifts through Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Model, explores strategies for incorporating Indigenous perspectives in early childhood settings, and addresses the promotion of gender equity in educational environments.
Historical Childhood Influences
Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Model (1979) provides a valuable framework for understanding how environmental factors at various levels influence child development. The model consists of several interconnected systems:
Microsystem: The child’s immediate environment, including family, peers, and school.
Mesosystem: Interactions between microsystems, such as the relationship between family and school.
Exosystem: External environments that indirectly affect the child, like a parent’s workplace.
Macrosystem: Broader societal influences, including cultural values and economic conditions.
Chronosystem: Historical changes and life transitions that impact development.
Using this model as a guide, we can examine how childhood experiences have evolved over the past 20-50 years and their impact on contemporary approaches to early childhood education.
A notable change in recent decades involves the increased emphasis on structured activities and organized learning for children. The unstructured, free play that characterized previous generations’ childhoods has diminished significantly. Modern children often participate in numerous scheduled activities, potentially limiting time for independent exploration and creativity (Carlson & Hill, 2018). This shift reflects changes in the microsystem and mesosystem, as families and educational institutions place greater emphasis on structured learning experiences.
Technology presents another major influence on contemporary childhoods. While offering educational benefits and fostering connection, excessive screen time may negatively impact social development, physical activity, and sleep patterns (Walsh et al., 2020). The integration of technology into children’s daily lives represents a significant change in the microsystem and exosystem, as digital devices become increasingly prevalent in homes and educational settings.
Contemporary approaches to childhood offer certain advantages. The focus on early childhood education can equip children with essential skills and knowledge. Additionally, heightened awareness of child development has led to advancements in early intervention programs, supporting children with diverse needs. These changes reflect positive developments in the macrosystem, as society places greater value on early childhood education and support.
However, challenges exist alongside these benefits. Overscheduling can create stress for children and limit opportunities for self-directed play, a crucial component of healthy development (Carlson & Hill, 2018). Similarly, excessive screen time may hinder social interaction and physical activity, both essential for cognitive and physical development (Walsh et al., 2020). These challenges highlight the need for balance in the microsystem and mesosystem, ensuring that children have opportunities for both structured learning and unstructured play.
Recent research emphasizes the importance of play-based learning in promoting academic and social-emotional skills. Fairholm (2024) suggests that educational settings can incorporate elements of both structured activities and free play to support optimal child development. This approach aligns with the need for balance and recognizes the value of play in fostering crucial developmental skills.
Indigenous Perspectives in Early Childhood Education
Acknowledging and incorporating Indigenous perspectives within early childhood education settings holds significant importance. The Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) emphasizes the respect and acknowledgment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures in early childhood education (Australian Government Department of Education and Training, 2022). This framework provides guidance for educators to create inclusive learning environments that celebrate Indigenous cultures and foster intercultural understanding.
Culturally responsive educators strive to understand and value the diverse backgrounds of their students. In the context of Indigenous children, this includes recognizing the unique cultural knowledge, traditions, and perspectives they bring to the learning environment (Villegas & Lucas, 2019). By incorporating Indigenous languages, stories, and art forms into learning experiences, educators can create a sense of belonging and cultural pride for Indigenous children while promoting intercultural understanding for all students.
Shay and Lampert (2024) critically analyze the concept of “community” in relation to Indigenous education in Australia. Their work highlights the importance of considering Indigenous perspectives when defining and implementing educational policies and practices. This research underscores the need for educators to engage with Indigenous communities and incorporate their voices in the development of culturally responsive curricula.
Harrison et al. (2024) examine the structures and systems influencing quality improvement in Australian early childhood education and care centers. Their research emphasizes the importance of considering cultural diversity and inclusivity in quality improvement initiatives. By incorporating Indigenous perspectives into these efforts, early childhood education settings can enhance the overall quality of their programs and better serve all children, including those from Indigenous backgrounds.
To create inclusive learning environments that respect and celebrate Indigenous cultures, educators can implement the following strategies:
Incorporate Indigenous languages, stories, and art forms into daily learning experiences.
Invite Indigenous community members to share their knowledge and traditions with children.
Use resources and materials that accurately represent Indigenous cultures and perspectives.
Engage in ongoing professional development to enhance cultural competence and understanding of Indigenous issues.
Collaborate with Indigenous families and communities to ensure authentic representation and participation in educational programs.
Through implementing these strategies, early childhood educators can create intercultural spaces that celebrate the unique backgrounds of all children, fostering a sense of belonging and promoting respect for diversity.
Promoting Gender Equity in Early Childhood Settings
Addressing gender stereotypes and promoting equity in early childhood education is crucial for fostering inclusive learning environments. The following strategies can be employed to challenge gender stereotypes and promote equality:
Gentle questioning: When children express gender stereotypes, educators can use friendly and curious questions to encourage reflection on assumptions. For example, asking “Why do you think boys cannot cook?” can prompt children to reconsider their beliefs.
Anti-bias curriculum: Introduce materials and activities that challenge traditional gender roles. This can include books featuring diverse representations of gender, as well as role models who challenge stereotypes in various professions.
Play-based learning: Create opportunities for children to explore different roles and activities regardless of gender. For instance, setting up a kitchen area with utensils and ingredients suitable for all genders can encourage children to experiment with cooking and food preparation.
Open communication with families: Share strategies used in the classroom to challenge stereotypes and encourage gender-neutral activities. Collaborate with families to reinforce these messages at home.
Henderson et al. (2024) discuss the concept of educational leadership in early childhood education, emphasizing the importance of a “rule of care” in addressing participant vulnerability. This approach can be applied to promoting gender equity by creating a supportive environment where all children feel valued and empowered to explore their interests without gender-based limitations.
MacDonald et al. (2023) provide an overview of school autonomy reform and social justice in Australian public education. While their focus is on the broader educational system, the principles of social justice and equity they discuss can be applied to early childhood settings. By promoting gender equity from an early age, educators can contribute to long-term social change and the development of a more inclusive society.
Conclusion
The field of early childhood education has undergone significant changes in recent decades, influenced by shifts in societal values, technological advancements, and increased awareness of diverse cultural perspectives. By examining these changes through the lens of Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Model, we can better understand the complex interplay of factors that shape children’s developmental experiences.
Incorporating Indigenous perspectives in early childhood education settings is crucial for creating inclusive learning environments that respect and celebrate cultural diversity. By implementing strategies that acknowledge and value Indigenous cultures, educators can foster a sense of belonging for all children while promoting intercultural understanding.
Promoting gender equity in early childhood settings requires a multifaceted approach that challenges stereotypes, encourages exploration of diverse roles and activities, and fosters open communication with families. By addressing gender bias from an early age, educators can contribute to the development of a more equitable society.
As the field of early childhood education continues to evolve, it is essential for educators, policymakers, and researchers to remain responsive to the changing needs of children and families.
References Examples: Australian Government Department of Education and Training. (2022). Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF). Commonwealth of Australia. Bronfenbrenner, U. (1979). The Ecology of Human Development: Experiments by Nature and Design. Harvard University Press. Carlson, C., & Hill, R. (2018). Is there a causal link between the decline in children's unstructured play and the rise in childhood obesity in the United States?. Children and Youth Services Review, 94, 120-127. National Association for the Education of Young Children. (2020). Anti-Bias Education for Young Children and Ourselves. NAEYC. Fairholm, H., 2024. Child Development Homes, Play-Based Learning, and Academic and Social-Emotional Skills. Harrison, L.J., Waniganayake, M., Brown, J., Andrews, R., Li, H., Hadley, F., Irvine, S., Barblett, L., Davis, B. and Hatzigianni, M., 2024. Structures and systems influencing quality improvement in Australian early childhood education and care centres. The Australian Educational Researcher, 51(1), pp.297-319. Henderson, L., Nuttall, J., Wood, E. and Martin, J., 2024. Educational leadership in early childhood education: Participant vulnerability and a ‘rule of care’. Journal of Early Childhood Research, 22(2), pp.297-312. MacDonald, K., Keddie, A., Blackmore, J., Mahoney, C., Wilkinson, J., Gobby, B., Niesche, R. and Eacott, S., 2023. School autonomy reform and social justice: a policy overview of Australian public education (1970s to present). The Australian Assessment Essays Help Educational Researcher, 50(2), pp.307-327. Shay, M. and Lampert, J., 2024. Community according to whom? An analysis of how Indigenous ‘community’is defined in Australia's Through Growth to Achievement 2018 report on equity in education. In Critical Studies and the International Field of Indigenous Education Research (pp. 47-63). Routledge. Villegas, A. M., & Lucas, T. (2019). Educating Culturally Responsive Teachers. SAGE Publications.
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TCHR2002 Assessment 1 TCHR2002 CHILDREN, FAMILIES & COMMUNITIES ASSESSMENT 1: Portfolio Summary Title: Assessment 1: Portfolio of short responses to unit content Due Date: Monday 22nd (WEEK 4) @ 11:59pm AEDT Length: 1500 words excluding references Weighting: 50%
Academic Integrity and GenAI – see below Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) tools, such as ChatGPT, are permitted for the preparation of the Assessment Task, within university guidelines. If you use GenAI tools, you must use them ethically and acknowledge their use. To find out how to reference GenAI in your work consult the APA 7th referencing style for your unit via SCU Library referencing guides.
Submission: 1 word document saved as a PDF and submitted to Turnitin. No resubmissions of assignments are permitted in this unit
Unit Learning Outcomes (ULO): You will demonstrate the following Unit Learning Outcomes (ULO) on the successful completion of this task:
ULO 1: Compare and critique historical and contemporary constructions of childhood and families, including those pertaining to Indigenous childhoods.
ULO 2: Identify the ways to ensure children feel that they are belonging, being, and becoming.
Rationale: Working with and supporting children and families within the context of their community is a vital consideration for teachers as this reflects the lives and learning of children. Knowing children, families and communities therefore presents opportunities and challenges and being able to identify, compare and critique the diversity of issues that children and families experience in contemporary communities in Australia is a vital skill.
Assessment Description: The aim of this assessment is for pre-service teachers to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding regarding the historical and diverse issues facing children and families in contemporary communities. This assessment aligns with the unit learning modules 1-3 and requires you to reflect upon key issues presented in the unit content and complete three (3) x 500-word responses to the following topics.
Topic 1: Historical childhood influences
Think about one or two issues that influence children’s lives today and how this has changed over the last 20-50 years. With reference to the unit content compare and critique how contemporary life may enhance or hinder outcomes for children and families compared to how life influenced them in the past. Pay attention to the ideas about how contemporary childhoods are constructed in an Australian or Global context. Frame your answer using the levels in Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Model including an understanding of the concept of proximal processes.
Topic 2: Indigenous childhoods
Culturally responsive educators are knowledgeable of each child and family’s context including how to embed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives in the curriculum. Make relevant links to the Early Years Learning Framework (AGDE, 2022) in your discussions.
Discuss the importance of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children being able to see themselves, their identities and cultures reflected in their learning environment.
Identify why creating an intercultural space is important for all children and families.
Topic 3: Gender equity scenario
You are employed as the teacher in an early childhood education setting where a new family has recently enrolled their four-year-old son Jacob. You have planned a cooking experience with the children when Jacob states, “cooking is the girl’s job, boys should not cook!” Discuss the following points with reference to the unit content:
What specific language and strategies would you use to address the children’s being, belonging and becoming in this situation?
Give examples of how you can teach gender equity as part of an anti-bias curriculum that has been outlined in the unit content, with children aged 3-5 years-of-age?
How could you communicate the principles of an anti-bias curriculum and gender equity with families?
Assessment Instructions
Formatting and style
APA 7 formatting is required for this task.
Include a cover page that contains:
The title of the task in bold
Your name (as author) and Student ID
Your faculty (Faculty of Education, Southern Cross University)
The unit code and name (TCHR2002 Children, Families, and Communities)
Your unit assessor’s name (Tracy Young)
The due date
Include clear headings for the topics you are responding to
Indent the first line of each new paragraph.
Use 12-point Arial font.
Use a 1.5- or double-line space for your writing and your reference list
Referencing
APA 7 Referencing style is required to be used for this task. Please refer to the APA 7th Referencing Guide for this task – https://libguides.scu.edu.au/apa
Create a reference list on a new page at the end of the task with a minimum of ten references, although you may use more
At a minimum, your sources for this task will include the unit required text, unit readings, EYLF (AGDE, 2022) and broader literature.
Broader literature may include textbooks, peer-reviewed articles, and other authoritative sources.
If you have used an AI tool or technology in the process of completing your assessment (for example, brainstorming, understanding concepts, generating examples, summarising readings), an acknowledgment of how you have used AI tools or technologies is required. You can create this acknowledgment by adding a declaration at the end of your reference list. For example: I acknowledge the use of ChatGPT to brainstorm concepts ——- for this assessment as a starting point for initial research before writing my assessment.
Assessment Submission
Submitted using the submission point in the Turnitin folder in the Assessments Tasks and Submission section on the Blackboard TCHR2002 site.
Label your final submission with your surname and initials and the assessment task’s name, e.g. SmithJ_PortfolioTask1.doc
You are strongly advised to undertake your own SIMILARITY CHECK via Turnitin, PRIOR to the due date, to identify and resolve any academic integrity issues prior to submitting – see SCU Academic Integrity and Turnitin. You can submit up to three times and receive the similarity match report immediately – after three attempts, you will need to wait 24 hours.
It is your responsibility to ensure that you have submitted the correct file and the final version of your assessment for marking before the due date/time.
Turnitin does not generate an automatic email receipt. If you have successfully uploaded your assessment, a green bar will appear at the top of the screen that says: Submission uploaded successfully: Download digital receipt. Use the hyperlink to download your digital receipt and store this with your assignment file.
If you have any difficulty submitting your assignment, log a job with Technology Services by email so you have evidence of your attempted submission. To avoid any last-minute problems, make sure you submit well before 11:59pm on the due date.
Academic Integrity
Southern Cross University academic integrity means behaving with the values of honesty, fairness, trustworthiness, courage, responsibility, and respect in relation to academic work. The Southern Cross University Academic Integrity Framework aims to develop a holistic, systematic, and consistent approach to addressing academic integrity across the entire University. For more information see the information in Blackboard, the recorded assessment overview, and refer to SCU Academic Integrity Framework.
Generative AI
For the assessments in this unit, students are permitted to use Generative AI (e.g., ChatGPT) to:
clarify concepts, theories, ideas, etc., discussed in class
generate preliminary ideas for writing
edit a working draft of the assessment
read and summarise research and supporting evidence for the assessment
Students are not permitted to use Generative AI to:
generate definitions or writing used in their final submission.
produce arguments or refine thinking on their final submission
Any of these actions will constitute and be treated as a breach of academic integrity. Do not post confidential, private, personal, or otherwise sensitive information into these tools. If you use these tools, you must be aware of their limitations, biases, and propensity for fabrication. Your use of AI tools must adhere to the SCU Academic Integrity Framework, including upholding honesty, ethics, professionalism, and academic integrity.
Special Consideration
Students wishing to request special consideration to extend the due date of an assessment must submit a Request for Special Consideration form via their My Enrolment page as early as possible and prior to the original due date for that assessment task, along with any accompanying documents, such as medical certificates. Please refer to the Special Consideration section of the SCU Policy https://policies.scu.edu.au/document/view-current.php?id=140
Late Submissions & Penalties
Except when special consideration is awarded, late submission of assessment tasks incurs a late penalty in accordance with the SCU Late Submission & Penalties Policy https://policies.scu.edu.au/view.current.php?id=00255
Penalties will be incurred after the assessment submission due date/time.
A penalty of 5% of the available marks will be deducted from the actual mark
A further penalty of 5% of the available mark will be deducted from the actual mark on each subsequent calendar day until the mark reaches zero.
Grades & Feedback
Grades and feedback will be posted to the ‘Grades and Feedback’ section on the Blackboard unit site using the following rubric for the marking criteria and grading standards. Please allow 7-10 days for grades to be posted.
Assessment Rubric
Marking Criteria and allocation
High Distinction+ (100%)
High Distinction (85-99%)
Distinction (75-84%)
Credit (65-74%)
Pass (50-64%)
Marginal Fail (35-49%)
Fail (0-49%)
Not addressed (0%)
Criteria 1: Historical influences and changes to childhoods in relation to Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Model /15 marks
Achieves all the criteria for a high distinction to an exemplary standard with outstanding integration of the unit content and references.
Comprehensive comparison and critique
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Assignment Instructions Summary
TCHR2002 Assessment 1 TCHR2002 CHILDREN, FAMILIES & COMMUNITIES ASSESSMENT 1: Portfolio Summary Title: Assessment 1: Portfolio of short responses to unit content Length: 1500 words excluding references
Academic Integrity and GenAI – see below Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) tools, such as ChatGPT, are permitted for the preparation of the Assessment Task, within university guidelines. If you use GenAI tools, you must use them ethically and acknowledge their use. To find out how to reference GenAI in your work consult the APA 7th referencing style for your unit via SCU Library referencing guides.
The integration of GenAI tools reflects the evolving landscape of academic research and writing. Students must develop skills to leverage these tools responsibly while maintaining academic integrity. This approach prepares future educators to navigate the ethical use of technology in their professional practice, fostering critical thinking and digital literacy.
Submission: 1 word document saved as a PDF and submitted to Turnitin. No resubmissions of assignments are permitted in this unit
Unit Learning Outcomes (ULO): You will demonstrate the following Unit Learning Outcomes (ULO) on the successful completion of this task:
ULO 1: Compare and critique historical and contemporary constructions of childhood and families, including those pertaining to Indigenous childhoods.
ULO 2: Identify the ways to ensure children feel that they are belonging, being, and becoming.
These learning outcomes emphasize the importance of understanding diverse perspectives on childhood and family structures. By analyzing historical and contemporary constructions, students develop a nuanced understanding of societal changes and their impact on educational practices. This knowledge forms the foundation for creating inclusive learning environments that support children’s sense of belonging and development.
Rationale: Working with and supporting children and families within the context of their community is a vital consideration for teachers as this reflects the lives and learning of children. Knowing children, families and communities therefore presents opportunities and challenges and being able to identify, compare and critique the diversity of issues that children and families experience in contemporary communities in Australia is a vital skill.
The rationale underscores the interconnectedness of children’s learning experiences with their family and community contexts. Educators must develop a deep understanding of these relationships to effectively support children’s growth and learning. This holistic approach aligns with current best practices in early childhood education, recognizing the significant influence of environmental factors on child development.
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