Rationale
The module considers children’s concept formation, the development of symbolic representation and the links between play, language and creativity. The module embraces the range of forms children use for understanding, making and sharing meanings in their early years.
The module examines the development of ‘desirable literacies’ in young children: their spoken language, reading and writing. Theoretical explanations for the role of the adult in supporting and extending children’s language and literacy development are included as is an exploration of the factors and conceptual frameworks that influence practice contexts in the early years.
Language, imagination and creativity all involve the ability to represent experience symbolically and this module critically examines the complex relationship between creativity, cognition and communication, including the extent to which education impacts upon children’s creativity. Creativity is increasingly stressed in guidance to practitioners and the module enables students to explore a range of creative forms of expression used by children, to enhance their communicative and cognitive development.