The aim of this module is to introduce the discipline of Social Policy to learners and its application to Early Childhood Practice. The module aims to develop the learners understanding of social policy and its influence on all aspects of children’s, families, and communities. It will provide the learner with an overview of the process of policy and legislation formation. It explores the historical development and the influence of the European Union and other international agencies on the development of social policy and service provision in Ireland to protect and provide health, safety, welfare, equality, and dignity for all. It with provide the learner with an understanding of the influence of demographics, the economy, political ideology, and social values on the development of social policy and service provision.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner should be able to:
LO1
Discuss the political, social, cultural, and historical factors which have influenced and shaped contemporary social policy.
LO2
Examine current policy development both nationally and internationally within Early Childhood Practice.
LO3
Explore the impact of social policy on Early Childhood Practice and provision
Pre-requisite learning
Module Recommendations
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is recommended before enrolment in this module.
No recommendations listed
Incompatible Modules
These are modules which have learning outcomes that are too similar to the learning outcomes of this module.
No incompatible modules listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Requirements
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is mandatory before enrolment in this module is allowed.
No requirements listed
Module Content & Assessment
Indicative Content
Introduction to social policy
What is social policy?
The aims of social policy.
Key concepts in social policy: e.g., equality, rights, social justice.
The policy-making and legislative process
Challenge and question the values, beliefs, aims, and principles underpinning policy. Understand the impact of political ideology and the political spectrum upon policymaking.
Universalism v’s Selectiveism in the targeting of service provision. The role of social policy in addressing child poverty, marginalisation and discrimination.
Policy and practice in Irish Early Childhood Practice
Historical overview of conceptualisations of childhood in Ireland. Historical development of social policy in relation to Early Childhood practice and service provision. Examination of the impact of international policy and national policy upon Irish early childhood education. The rights-based approach to the development of children’s policy. The role of Children’s Advocacy agencies and their influence in the development of policy and provision. Innovations and service provision for children identified as having specific needs. Integrated Service approaches.
Contemporary policy issues and practice in Irish Early Childhood
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989). Early Childhood Education and Care policy areas: e.g., Siolta (2006); Aistear (2009); Better Outcomes, Brighter Futures (2014); Tusla: Child and Family Agency; First Five (2018)
Assessment Breakdown
%
Continuous Assessment
100.00%
Continuous Assessment
Assessment Type
Assessment Description
Outcome addressed
% of total
Assessment Date
Multiple Choice Questions
n/a
1
40.00
Week 6
Project
n/a
2,3
60.00
Week 12
No Project
No Practical
No End of Module Formal Examination
SETU Carlow Campus reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment