ECCEL3712 Social justice and agency in ECE settings

Children¿s agency is centred on the beliefs that children have a right to participate in decisions that affect them, are capable of making choices and decisions, and can initiate and lead their own learning. In this unit, Pre-Service Teachers (PSTs) consider the frameworks and models of children¿s participation in which the concept of agency can be considered and theorised. Social justice and children¿s rights are considered as important interrelated concepts. PSTs identify and discuss children¿s agency and how it can be supported or inhibited. Ways of listening to children and ensuring their authentic participation, particularly with regard to their learning, are considered. PSTs design a learning program, within an open-ended learning environment, that acknowledges and supports their agency and builds on children¿s culture, strengths, interests and knowledge. This unit will also expand Pre-Service Teachers' competencies as professional teachers, through a ten day supervised teaching experience in an educational setting or educational program. It is designed to encourage, inspire and challenge PSTs to explore alternative learning settings in which high quality educational practice occurs. The placement is underpinned by the intention to extend the PSTs¿ perceptions of teaching and learning beyond the traditional and familiar educational environment. PSTs are required to engage with and complete the required professional experience activities in collaboration with their school-based Supervisor Teacher/Educator. PSTs will also document and reflect on their professional learning throughout the placement. Completion of these requirements supports reflective practice and the successful completion of the professional experience component of the unit.

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