Child Development & Diversity
Find out why Scandinavia is known as one of the most progressive places for raising children to be competent, independent, democratic, and social beings.
Cross-cultural approaches to the pros and cons of free play, school readiness versus social pedagogy, and gender stereotypes in childhood serve as the foundation for class discussions. Through your Practicum, Field Study, and Study Tour hands-on experiences and reflection, gain new perspectives on child development and education.
IS THIS PROGRAM FOR YOU?
It’s a good fit if you study:
- Child Development
- Education/Educational Studies
- Family Studies
- Human Development
CORE COURSES
Child Development in Scandinavia + Practicum
Fall/Spring, 6 Credits (3-Credit Course + 3-Credit Practicum)
Within the framework of Nordic pedagogy, investigate education and care, analyzing the discourse surrounding quality of life for children. Explore the pros and cons of free play, and relationships to caregivers and peers in the welfare state, school readiness versus social pedagogy, and children’s exploration of nature in practicum, Study Tour, and on Field Studies.
Week-Long Study Tour: Helsinki
Core Course Week: Denmark
Corequisite: Child Development and Education in Scandinavia Practicum
Children in a Multicultural Context + Practicum
Fall/Spring, 6 Credits (3-Credit Course + 3-Credit Practicum)
Based on research and student experiences at practicum sites, the course examines practices around the terms ethnic diversity and multiculturalism in Danish education and social policy. Educational issues such as teaching practices, intercultural communication and learning, multilingualism, and the influence of culture on education and child development are studied.
Week-Long Study Tour: London
Core Course Week: Denmark
Corequisite: Children in a Multicultural Context Practicum
Visit our website for the full list of over 250 additional electives!
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