Key facts
UNE unit code: EDEC371
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 2 - Online
- Yes
- No
- No
- 6
Unit information

The purpose of this unit is to develop your professional philosophy by studying and evaluating approaches to learning in early childhood and applying these evaluations to practice.
Through your growing understanding of early childhood theories and philosophies, you will reflect on the links between theories, policies and practice in the context of early childhood education.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 2 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
This module/unit addresses ACECQA's Curriculum requirements, referred to as Curriculum Specifications (CS).
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)

Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- explain how theories will inform their own teaching practice with children aged from birth to 5 years (CS: 2.4, 2.7, 3.1, 3.9, 5.2, 5.3);
- evaluate approaches to learning in early childhood education and apply this evaluation to practice (CS: 2.1, 2.2, 3.1, 3.9, 5.2, 5.3);
- explain how their practice addresses the needs of children from diverse backgrounds (CS: 2.4, 2.7, 3.9, 4.4, 4.5, 5.2, 5.3); and
- demonstrate understanding of the links between theory, policy and practice (CS: 2.1, 2.2, 2.4, 2.7, 3.1, 3.9, 5.2, 5.3).
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment 1 | Yes | 40% | All offerings | A reflective journal (e.g., reflect on how your practice is informed by theories and policy framework, use at least 2 theories, EYLF, NQF, and the code of ethics). Relates to CS: 2.1, 2.2, 2.4, 2.7, 3.1, 3.9, 5.2, 5.3 No. Words: 1600 |
| Assessment 2 | Yes | 60% | All offerings | Response to a scenario – implement and evaluate change in teaching practice. Relates to CS: 2.1, 2.2, 2.4, 2.7, 3.1, 3.9, 4.4, 4.5, 5.2, 5.3 No. Words: 2400 |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Students are expected to purchase prescribed material. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
Programming and Planning in Early Childhood Settings
ISBN: 9780170473439
Arthur, L., Beecher., B., Death, E., Dockett, S., & Farmer, S., Cengage Learning 9th ed. 2024
Text refers to: All offerings
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