EC531 : Becoming a Professional Early Childhood Teacher
This course introduces you to the field of early childhood education in New Zealand. It discusses professional knowledge, skills and values, as well as examining the key documents that guide early childhood professionals in New Zealand. In particular, Te Whāriki (Ministry of Education, 2017), the national curriculum framework for early childhood education, its overall intent, structure and the practices it promotes are introduced. Professional relationships, responsibilities and qualities of early childhood teachers are discussed and you will become familiar with the concept of reflection as a tool for growing your teaching practice.