Science, technology, engineering and mathematics in early childhood educational contexts

In this unit, you will critically analyse, evaluate and transform your understandings of how Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematical (STEM) concepts develop as young children experience meaningful opportunities to develop their STEM thinking in a range of settings (home, childcare and community). You will apply key STEM concepts and pedagogical strategies for enhancing children’s learning through play, creative inquiry, problem solving and consider the application of Aboriginal and Torre Strait Islander approaches to STEM early childhood education from birth to five. By engaging with current research, policy debates, and practice in early childhood STEM, you will select and apply methods for planning rich educational experiences. You will investigate tools, technologies, and processes for monitoring children’s learning and development in inclusive ways, and will reflect on your own experiences and perspectives as a STEM leader by generating deep awareness of how your beliefs about STEM influence your practice. In this unit, research and practice are brought together, and you will demonstrate autonomy and adaptability to critically develop expertise to lead the integration of STEM education suited to your local contexts and early childhood settings.