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ECE304 - Critical Reflection On Early Childhood Theory and Practice

2026

Sector

Higher Education

Discipline

Education

Credit Points

Unit Level

300

Equivalent Units

Prerequisites

Incompatible

Coerequisites

Assumed Knowledge

Unit Description

This unit develops professional critical reflection and analysis of contemporary issues relevant to educators and professionals working in early childhood care and education settings. This unit engages preservice teachers in developing their critical analysis and reflexivity skills in relation to a range of contemporary early childhood issues through to professional practices, including communicating and engaging with colleagues, families and other professionals. Preservice teachers will identify their own professional positions and perspectives within ethical, policy, empirical evidence and legislative environments that govern early childhood contexts.

Unit Learning Outcomes

1.	Critically analyse and compare historical, cultural and political representations of childhood and the impact on practice of the different constructions of childhood.
2.	Apply various sources of knowledge, including Indigenous perspectives, to evaluate contemporary issues of early childhood.
3.	Critically examine and identify personal beliefs regarding contemporary socio-political issues of difference that confront professionals who work in the early childhood field.
4.	Critically review current curricula, pedagogical and assessment issues in early childhood, within the broader context of cultural difference and inclusive practice.
5.	Apply research-based evidence to facilitate and inform positive communication with families about children's development, learning and wellbeing.

Assessment Overview

	Assessment Task	Value (of total mark)	Related Learning Outcome/s
1.	Tutorial tasks (2 x 250 words)	10%	1,2,3,4,5
2.	Written paper (2,000 words)	45%	1,2,3,4
3.	Presentation (15 mins)	45%	1,2,3,4,5

Unit Availability

Year	Semester	Att Mode	Location	Learning Method	Timetable*
2026	Semester 2	Internal	Danala - Education and Community Precinct	OLR	View
2026	Semester 2	External	External Studies	OLR	View
2026	Semester S	External	External Studies	OLR	View

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OLR: Internet access is required for this unit as students are required to access study materials provided on-line through Learnline. Please log into Learnline on the first day of each teaching period. For more information about Learnline, please click here.

Critical Dates

Important Dates for Students

Fee Information:
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2026 Domestic Unit Fees (PDF)
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