James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2023

ED2093 - Early Childhood Mathematics and Numeracy

Core subject for BEd (ECE) [36110 or 109210]. External offering available only to students enrolled in the BEd (Early Childhood Education). JCU Online campus is available only to students enrolled in the B Ed Online carousel mode.

Subject Description

The subject examines current national and state curriculum frameworks and policies and develops preservice teachers with the necessary knowledge and competencies to effectively and equitably teach mathematics and numeracy to young children from diverse backgrounds [from birth to 8 years]. Upon completion of this subject, preservice teachers will develop mathematical and pedagogical content knowledge, an appreciation of ICT tools to facilitate and showcase learning and competencies to effectively embed positive dispositions towards numeracy to young children in 21st-century classrooms. Preservice teachers will develop and demonstrate an understanding of a range of pedagogies and assessment practices that are informed by research and support contemporary approaches to young children's learning, especially the use of differentiated instruction. This subject includes 25 days of Professional Experience.

Learning Outcomes

• evaluate various teaching methods, materials and media as they relate to young children's learning as stipulated in relevant state and national frameworks and policies
• demonstrate an awareness of the content and characteristics of developmentally appropriate and socially just mathematics curricula for young children [from birth to 8 years] using the Early Years Learning Framework and the Australian Curriculum: Mathematics and reference to The National Numeracy Learning Progression
• demonstrate an understanding of the learning processes used by young children of different socio-cultural backgrounds in learning mathematics and numeracy
• explore ways of creating a learning environment for effective learning and teaching of mathematics and embed positive dispositions towards numeracy for young children demonstrating the application of Australian Curriculum general capabilities: numeracy across the curriculum
• construct, articulate and apply a personal philosophy regarding the teaching and learning of mathematics and numeracy for young children

Subject Assessment

• Written > Examination - In class - (40%) - Individual
• Written > Action plan - (30%) - Group & Individual
• Written > Lesson plan 1 - (30%) - Individual

Note that minor variations might occur due to the continuous subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.

Special Assessment Requirements

Complete consecutive 25 day Placement, submit a Satisfactory grading - Minimum Developing Adequately in all descriptors on the Professional Experience Report is required to pass the subject. Attendance at Professional Experience Workshops is an essential component of the Work Integrated Learning Program. If repeating the subject, the reattempt at all subject assessments including the Placement is a requirement.

Assumed Knowledge:  It is expected that from ED1492, students will be familiar with the mathematical concepts explored each week, and that they have sufficient experience in critical analysis of readings and ideas that they can construct a well-supported argument

Inadmissible Subject Combinations:  ED2011 ED2091 ED2193

Availabilities