Families in Context
PostgraduateMAQ-ECHX8202019
Course information for 2019 intake
Examine family and the implications of diversity in family values. Compare traditional, western images of family and the daily experiences of families in Australia. Consider socio-cultural, economic and political contexts in shaping family life.
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- Study method
- 100% online
- Assessments
- 100% online
- Entry requirements
- Part of a degree
- Duration
- -
- Loan available
- HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP available
Families in Context
About this subject
At the completion of this subject students will be able to:
- explore diverse contexts in and perspectives on ways in which families function
- reflect on personal experiences and how these shape perspectives on working with children and families
- source credible and scholarly research concerning families to inform practice and generate new understandings and knowledge
- highlight and critically analyse a range of social, cultural and political perspectives/influences on family life. Consider ways in which awareness of families in context can facilitate/support early childhood teaching practice
- consider ways in which awareness of families in context can facilitate/support early childhood teaching practice
- explore the online environment and contribute effectively and respectfully
- engage in active and critical reflective practice about working with diverse families.
- Introduction to the unit
- Families: definitions, contexts and theoretical orientations
- Developing a philosophical approach to working with families
- Media portrayal of families
- Family formation through assisted reproductive technologies
- Indigenous perspectives - kinship ties
- Recent arrivals: children from immigrant and refugee backgrounds
- Children with parents who identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT)
- Revisit philosophy module
- Families with members with disabilities
- Children from families identified as 'at risk':Divorce, Remarriage, Single-Parent families, Isolated families from metropolitan & rural/regional areas
- Reflections on the learning from this unit
- Research and study of families: multidisciplinary perspectives
This subject was previously known as ECEX820 Families in Context.
The overarching aim of this subject is to examine the implications of diversity in family values and the value of family across a range of contexts. Over the degree of the subject, we will consider the role of socio-cultural, economic and political contexts in shaping family life and values in the 21st century. Drawing on a variety of resources, including media, academic publications and reflections on personal experiences, we will explore changing family lives and the extent to which traditional, largely Western-based, images of “family” life reflect the daily experiences/practices of families and children in Australia and abroad.
- Assignment 1 (20%)
- Assignment 2 (40%)
- Assignment 3 (40%)
For textbook details check your university's handbook, website or learning management system (LMS).
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Entry requirements
To enrol in this subject, you must be admitted into a degree.
Equivalent subjects
You should not enrol in this subject if you have successfully completed any of the following subject(s) because they are considered academically equivalent:
MAQ-ECEX820 (Not currently available)
Others
Admission to the Master of Teaching (Birth to Five Years)
Additional requirements
- Other requirements -
Access to a digital camera, or mobile phone or tablet with camera capability. Basic computer tools such as Microsoft Word and Powerpoint.
Study load
- 0.125 EFTSL
- This is in the range of 10 to 12 hours of study each week.
Equivalent full time study load (EFTSL) is one way to calculate your study load. One (1.0) EFTSL is equivalent to a full-time study load for one year.
Find out more information on Commonwealth Loans to understand what this means to your eligibility for financial support.