Early Learning Philosophy (Montessori Method)

Course Details

 

Topics covered include:

• Preschool Philosophies – Influential Theorists
• Preschool Philosophies – How are Philosophies Created?
• Concepts of Early Childhood Education
• Sensitive Periods
• Learning through Play
• The Absorbent Mind
• Key Principles of the Prepared Environment
• Aistear and Síolta
• Cultural Adaption & Cultural Diversity.

 

Entry Requirements / Prerequisites:

• FETAC / QQI Level 5 certificate, Leaving Certificate or equivalent qualifications and/or relevant life and work experiences.
• Students must currently be working (or on work experience) in the childcare sector for a minimum of 30 hours as assignments will require learners to draw upon practical experience. These placement hours can be completed throughout the 12 week course.
• Garda Vetting is required for all Childcare placements and students can apply for this through The Open College. Please ask for details.
• If you take this programme by distance learning the course material will be posted or emailed to you.  You can complete and return assignments/projects which must be typed rather than handwritten either by post or by email.
• Students taking this module will have to sit an examination (€50.00) that is normally held in Dublin but arrangements can be made in outside centres around the country. This can be paid before exam dates and is not required upon enrolment.
• As this programme is delivered through distance learning or eLearning, students must be capable of studying on their own initiative.
• If you take this course by eLearning you will need basic IT skills and have access to broadband.
• Competent knowledge of English as well as basic typing skills is required as all assessments need to be typed prior to submission for correction.

 

Assessment:

Exam (Theory) – 30%

Assignments x 2 – 30%

Skills Demonstration – 40% 

 

Exam (Theory): 

The internal assessor will devise a theory-based examination that assesses candidates’ ability to recall and apply theory and understanding, requiring responses to a range of structured questions.

The examination will be based on a range of specific learning outcomes and will be 2 hours in duration.

 

Assignments: The internal assessor will devise two assignments that require the candidates to produce pieces of work.

• Learners are required to critically evaluate a Montessori Philosophy in the ECCE Setting. (Min 1000 words)

• Learners are required to evaluate the four themes of the Aistear Framework within the ECCE setting. (Min 1000 words)

 

Skills Demonstration: 

Learners are required to devise themed plan using the Aistear framework. Learners must select a theme e.g. healthy eating, my body etc. and devise a weekly plan to include the four themes of Aistear; communication, exploring and thinking, wellbeing and identity and belonging.