Liverpool Hope University, BA (Hons), Early Childhood Studies and Outdoor Recreation

Early childhood studies Level 1: The student studies an introduction to the philosophical and historical background to the early years tradition; the pioneers identified here will remain central to the course, providing the student with a historical understanding of current good practice that incorporates working closely with the family in relation to the needs of the child; this is followed by a holistic examination of child development in relation to physical, social and emotional development. Level 2: this level develops by looking at how young children think and learn and considers the links between cognition, language acquisition and playful learning; this sets the scene for studying how young children learn in the foundation stage, in comparison to international models; a range of other modules is offered which may include: motivation and well-being in young children; creativity and the young child. Level 3: a key area of study at this level is legislation, policy and strategy for early managers, in relation to early years settings and young children; legislation and social policy are constantly developing and the student examines these in relation to early years provision and leadership within a multi-agency workforce; a range of other modules are offered which may include: research project; surviving change, loss and grief in young children’s lives; using information and communication technology creatively. Outdoor recreation Level 1: this level develops the student’s understanding of natural and human environmental systems and key issues in tourism and leisure, together with residential experience of outdoor activities and leadership skills; in addition the student studies the business environment; small-group teaching encourages discussion of key issues and allows the student to develop important personal and subject-related skills. Level 2: in this level the student builds on 1st-year themes, with outdoor practice and technical skills based largely at Plas Caerdeon, analysis of environmental resources and how they are managed, and a study of the theory and practice of leisure; training in research and investigative skills allows the student to engage with the process by which people develop academic understanding of the subject, and to gain practical experience in a research project. Level 3: in this level, the student is encouraged to gain work experience as part of their course, or alternatively they may undertake a significant piece of research in a subject of interest to them; the student may have a chose from: adventure activity: largely delivered experientially, in both water and mountain based environments, examining both the practice and philosophy of the outdoor experience; environmental management: studies ways in which people ensure resources are used in a sustainable way with future generations in mind; understanding of the leisure industry: focuses on policy and planning issues, or on managing events.