Module Code: H6ISP
Long Title Introduction to Social Policy in Early Childhood Education
Title Introduction to Social Policy in Early Childhood Education
Module Level: LEVEL 6
EQF Level: 5
EHEA Level: Short Cycle
Credits: 5
Module Coordinator:  
Module Author: Jane Liu
Departments: NCI Learning & Teaching
Specifications of the qualifications and experience required of staff  
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to:
# Learning Outcome Description
LO1 Demonstrate a clear understanding of how Social Policy is created and implemented in Ireland.
LO2 Discuss the impact Social Policy has in shaping society.
LO3 Identify the key influencers on Social Policy which impacts directly and indirectly on children from birth to six years of age.
LO4 Demonstrate knowledge of current Social Policy in Ireland as it specifically relates to children.
Dependencies
Module Recommendations

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is required before enrolment on this module. While the prior learning is expressed as named NCI module(s) it also allows for learning (in another module or modules) which is equivalent to the learning specified in the named module(s).

No recommendations listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Entry requirements  
 

Module Content & Assessment

Indicative Content
What is Social Policy?
What is Social Policy, where it can be found in society, how is it created and implemented in Ireland? Definition of Social Policy. What drives the creation of Social Policy? What government departments are responsible for identifying and recognising the need for policy? Exploration of the Social Policy Cycle in relation to children.
Influencers
Exploration of the various areas of social policy, how they are interrelated and how they can impact on the child. Who/what are the key influencers of Social Policy in relation to children. Groups such as Barnardo’s, Start Strong, Early Childhood Ireland, and Children’s Rights Alliance advocate on behalf of children and the family, how do they make their voice heard, what channels do they use? Looking at the roles children and parents have in influencing social policy. Examining Social Policy which relates to children at a macro level and a micro level within and outside Ireland. Learners will appreciate that Social Policy is fluid and dynamic, is not something they have no control over and that they themselves are the advocates for children’s needs and rights.
Current Social Policy which impacts on children’s lives in Ireland
Better Outcomes, Brighter Futures: The National Policy Framework for Children & Young People 2014 – 2020; Right from the Start: The National Early Years Strategy for Children 0-6 years; Child & Family Relationship Act 2015, Free Preschool Year; Healthy Ireland: A Framework for Improved Health and Wellbeing 2013 -2025
Assessment Breakdown%
Coursework100.00%

Assessments

Full Time

Coursework
Assessment Type: Project % of total: 100
Assessment Date: n/a Outcome addressed: 1,2,3,4
Non-Marked: No
Assessment Description:
Describe how Social Policy is created in Ireland and illustrate this by researching and reporting on creation, implementation and impact of a current Social Policy (2500 words)
No End of Module Assessment
No Workplace Assessment
Reassessment Requirement
Coursework Only
This module is reassessed solely on the basis of re-submitted coursework. There is no repeat written examination.

NCIRL reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment

 

Module Workload

Module Target Workload Hours 0 Hours
Workload: Full Time
Workload Type Workload Description Hours Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload
Lecture per week 2 Once per semester 0.17
Independent Learning No Description 8.5 Once per semester 0.71
Total Weekly Contact Hours 0.17
Workload: Part Time
Workload Type Workload Description Hours Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload
Independent Learning No Description 8.5 Once per semester 0.71
Lecture per week 2 Once per semester 0.17
Total Weekly Contact Hours 0.17
 

Module Resources

Recommended Book Resources
  • Considine, M., Dukelow, F.. (2009), Irish Social Policy, A Critical Introduction, Gill & Macmillan, Dublin.
  • Yeo, A., Lovell, T.. (2007), Sociology and Social Policy for the Early Years, Hodder Arnold, U.K..
Recommended Article/Paper Resources
Supplementary Article/Paper Resources
Other Resources
Discussion Note: