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Unit of study_
EDEC4008: STEM in Early Childhood
2025 unit information
Dispositions towards science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) begin to form early in a child's development. Students will explore the relationships between ways of thinking and doing in these areas of learning, and effective approaches for implementing STEM education in early childhood settings. The unit will be structured around several integrated themes and underpinned by a play- based problem solving pedagogy. A major aim of the unit will be to develop in students the skills and confidence to be leaders in STEM education in early childhood education settings.
Unit details and rules
Managing faculty or University school:
Arts and Social Sciences
| Study level | Undergraduate |
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| Academic unit | Education |
| Credit points | 6 |
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Prerequisites:
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132 credit points including EDEC2007 and EDEC3003 |
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Corequisites:
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None |
| Prohibitions:
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None |
| Assumed knowledge:
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None |
At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:
- LO1. Articulate advanced understandings about science, technology, mathematics, engineering (STEM) topics, and ways of integrated thinking and doing in these disciplines.
- LO2. Apply principles of ‘play-based problem solving’ for developing positive dispositions for engagement in STEM activities, and building STEM concepts and skills in toddlers and young children.
- LO3. Analyse young children’s engagement with STEM activities and plan appropriate learning experiences to encourage creativity, and develop their thinking and problem solving.
- LO4. Critically evaluate STEM resources in relation to their potential for supporting children’s overall learning and development.
- LO5. Engage with and explain the nexus between practice, theory and research in relation to STEM education.
- LO6. Reflect on the value of STEM education in relation to the development, strengths and interests of toddlers and young children.
- LO7. Articulate an increased understanding of their leadership role as a member of an early childhood team and community of learners.
- LO8. Design an educative resource for professional development of early childhood educators in relation to STEM education.
Unit availability
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