Perspectives on Childhood and Youth (EDUC90842)

This subject will explore philosophical and critical sociological constructions of childhood and youth over time and examine the diverse and contemporary nature of childhood. Students will examine childhood and youth through diverse lenses, and consequently, gain critical insight into the context of contemporary educative settings. The importance of supporting developing and shifting identities will be explored. Students will have the opportunity to investigate the ways in which young people variously connect with and contribute to society, examining diverse voices reflecting the complexity of children’s lives and the role played by various social institutions and media. Notions of diversity and interculturality will be explored alongside the implications of universal frameworks for children and youth. Meeting with community organisations across the semester, individual and collective identities will be woven through the subject, providing students with an understanding of broader contexts for working effectively with young children and youth.