In introducing Montessori educational philosophy, Síolta and Aistear, this module will investigate how best to offer children creative, interactive environments conducive to the development of life skills such as independence, cooperation, personal care, self-regulation, exploration, problem solving and interpersonal communication. Reflection on the pedagogy of playful learning, and the role of the adult in this process, will be a key aspect of the module.

The overall aim of the module is to provide learners with the knowledge and skills to create environments for children in the early years, where the focus is on the child as an active agent of his/her own education.   Using knowledge of Montessori Educational philosophy and Síolta and Aistear, this module will investigate how best to offer children creative and interactive environments conducive to the development of life skills and executive functions. This module will build on module 1, continuing to highlight the importance of sensory and concrete learning activities, literacy and numeracy skills and inclusive practice. The module will also introduce the issue of ICT and discuss the ‘pros’ and ‘cons’ of technology for digital natives, in the early years.

This module focuses on differentiation and responses to diversity.  It introduces learners to practice and planning for children with assessed syndromes and specific learning difficulties. It outlines the Individual Education Plan (IEP) process and the importance of differentiation both in planning and in practice.  The theoretical aspects of the module are linked to practice by examining how Montessori concepts, in particular those relating to sensory development and the concrete experience, can be integrated to practice to support children’s learning. This module aims to provide the learner with a deeper understanding of differentiation and responses to diversity.

This module introduces learners to key people, perspectives and concepts in the study of society. It provides a lens through which learners can observe and seek to understand their culture, and the social world around them. Learners are encouraged to think about how the ways in which they were socialised have formed their own beliefs and values, and how society with its systems and institutions has influenced their own development. In particular, learners will consider the concepts of family and the social construction of childhood.