Families in Context
PostgraduateMAQ-ECHX82002023
Previously MAQ-ECHX820
Course information for 2023 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.
Enrolments for this course are closed, but you may have other options to start studying now. Book a consultation to learn more.
- Study method
- 100% online
- Assessments
- 100% online
- Entry requirements
- Prior study needed
- Duration
- 18 weeks
- Loan available
- HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP available
Families in Context
About this subject
On successful completion of this subject, you 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.
- 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
- Explore the online environment and contribute effectively and respectfully
- Engage in active and critical reflective practice about working with diverse families.
- A week-by-week guide to the topics in this unit will be provided in the study materials.
This subject was previously known as ECHX820 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 course 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.
- Online participation and discussion (20%)
- Analysis of selected family topic (40%)
- Philosophy paper (40%)
For textbook details check your university's handbook, website or learning management system (LMS).
This research-intensive university in north-western Sydney offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. With over 44,000 current students, Macquarie has a strong reputation for welcoming international students and embracing flexible and convenient study options, including its partnership with Open Universities Australia.
Learn more about Macquarie University.
Explore Macquarie courses.
- QS World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:
- 11
- Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:
- 10
Entry requirements
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-ECHX820 (Not currently available)
Others
NCCW (pre-2020 units) ECED820, ECEX820, ECED720, ECED826, ECED840, ECEX826, ECEX840, ECHX840, ECHX820
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.
Note:
Students who have an Academic Standing of Suspension or Exclusion under Macquarie University's Academic Progression Policy are not permitted to enrol in OUA units offered by Macquarie University. Students with an Academic Standing of Suspension or Exclusion who have enrolled in units through OUA will be withdrawn.
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.
What to study next?
Once you’ve completed this subject it can be credited towards one of the following courses
Master of Teaching (Birth to Five Years)
PostgraduateMAQ-TCH-MAS
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