Key facts
UNE unit code: EDEC392
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 1 - On Campus
- Trimester 1 - Online
- Trimester 2 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- No
- No
- 6
Unit information

Studying this unit, you will critically explore a range of philosophies of learning in early childhood education to develop a sound professional and personal philosophy and approaches to pedagogy and programme planning.
A co-constructionist approach to curriculum based on understandings of socio-cultural theories will be investigated and applied.
This unit reflects a birth to five years focus. It includes a 15-day block of professional placement in an ACECQA-approved centre-based early childhood education setting with children aged three to five years.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 1 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| Trimester 1 | Online |
| Trimester 2 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
This unit requires a 15 day block placement in an ACECQA-approved centre-based early childhood education setting with children aged 3-5 years and a four year degree qualified supervising teacher. Before entering the setting, all students must have completed online Anaphylaxis training, an online Child Protection module, and have obtained a valid Working with Children Check clearance (for those students wishing to complete their placement in NSW) or equivalent (for those students wishing to complete their placement outside NSW). Please see the Office for Professional Learning Important Information webpage for more information.
This 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:
- critically evaluate approaches to learning in early childhood education and apply this evaluation to practice; (CS 1.1, 2.1, 2.2, 2.7, 3.9);
- develop and share a personal and professional philosophy for early childhood pedagogy, that includes cultural diversity and inclusive practice; (CS 1.6, 2.1, 2.4, 2.5, 4.5, 5.2, 5.3);
- reflect on their personal growth through self-directed learning; (CS 5.3, 6.3);
- demonstrate their understanding of the links between theory, policy and practice; (CS 2.1, 2.4, 2.7, 3.1, 4.1, 4.2, 5.3);
- demonstrate professional standards of communication and literacy; (CS 5.3, 6.3); and
- design, develop and implement an integrated early childhood teaching and learning program. (CS 2.1, 2.2, 2.4, 3.1, 3.9, 4.5).
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 written Response. Relates to CS: 1.1, 1.6, 2.1, 2.2, 2.5, 2.7, 3.1, 4.1, 4.2, 5.2, 5.3, 6.3 No. Words: 1800 |
| Assessment 2 | Yes | 60% | All offerings | Reflective Report.Relates to CS:1.1, 2.1, 2.2, 2.4, 2.7, 3.1, 3.9, 4.1, 4.2, 5.3, 6.3) No. Words: 2200 |
| Professional Experience - Assurance Task | Yes | All offerings | Professional Experience. Requires a 15 day block placement in an ACECQA approved centre-based early childhood education setting with a four year degree qualified supervising teacher and children aged three-five years. A satisfactory report from their supervisor(s) is required in order to successfully pass this unit. Relates to CS: 1.1, 1.6, 2.1, 2.2, 2.4, 2.5, 2.7, 3.1, 4.1, 4.2, 5.2, 5.3, 6. |
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: 9780170472883
Arthur, L., Beecher, B., Death, E., Dockett, S. and Farmer, S., Cengage 9th ed. 2025
Text refers to: All offerings
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