My favourite module so far on my Early Childhood Studies BA (Hons) course: Embracing Diversity

Mitzi explains why Embracing Diversity is her favourite module.

So far in Early Childhood Studies BA (Hons) I have really enjoyed learning about how children learn, develop, and thrive in their lives. I find learning the theory of each module, helps broaden and apply my theory to practice. One module that really heightened the importance of applying theory to practice, is the Embracing Diversity module.

Diversity emphasises the difference of each child, contributing to a unique environment within our settings. Often, diversity is misinterpreted and can discriminate against minority groups of children. I have really enjoyed learning the different ways in which we can make children feel inclusive both in setting and in the wider community.

This module has provided several practical opportunities to learn and be creative. I really enjoyed making a peg doll out of craft materials. It allowed me to see the world through a child’s eyes and prepare what I think would be a suitable resource for them to align with and learn from. Having the opportunity to make a peg doll really excited me as, being a children’s author, it let me recreate characters.

I also believe that it had an impact on me and my fellow course members, who really got a chance to explore our own differences and strengthen our personal development. Our peg dolls turned out differently, signifying our diversity within the group.

I liked how this module encompassed varied learning styles. I liked how my course lecturer, based the theory from her personal experiences, providing us with insights on how we could apply our knowledge to real circumstances. The module also encouraged us to share our experiences openly and learn skills such as Makaton. As a group, we signed the alphabet, along with nursery rhymes used in practice to promote inclusivity.

Not only have I enjoyed the practical on campus seminars of this module, but I have liked how creative my assignment could be. Often, when writing an assignment, we are encouraged to stick to certain formats, however, with Embracing Diversity, it was all about promoting individuality, which I really liked.

Furthermore, the module, Embracing Diversity has really excited me for what other modules are to come on my course, Early Childhood Studies BA (Hons). The pedagogy of Early Childhood remains wide and relates to us more than we will ever know.

Mitzi Harris is a 2nd year Early Childhood Studies BA (Hons) student and HEMS Digital Ambassador. Find out more about Early Childhood Studies, and other degree courses, at one of our Open Days.