Theories of child development and learning

This unit provides you with introductory knowledge of child development and learning research and theories. It examines the development and learning of children from birth to 5 years, including physical, cognitive and social/emotional development. You will research and critique a range of child development theories and apply them to understand learning across infancy through to 5 years of age. In particular, you will explore some of the ways development is influenced by the experiences children have of particular events in their lives. You will gain skills and knowledge of pedagogical strategies that promote positive learning and developmental trajectories from birth – 5 years of age. This includes using knowledge of child development and learning theories to recognise early indicators of developmental vulnerability and to inform timely, developmentally appropriate pedagogical responses.