University of Galway

Course Module Information

Course Modules

Semester 1 | Credits: 5

This module will introduce fundamental structures and principles of education with the aim of broadening students’ ideas and knowledge about education systems and policy. Students will be shown a diversity of approaches by highlighting European and international developments which involve an emphasis on creative pedagogical thinking and they will analyse how Ireland fits into this framework. There will also be an examination of the socio-cultural aims and requirements of education focusing on pedagogy but also addressing key areas of policy and practice as they relate to social justice, for example, social inclusion, race and ethnicity, gender and belief systems.

Learning Outcomes
  1. Demonstrate knowledge of the variety of educational approaches which exist.
  2. Recognise the need for diversity of educational provision.
  3. Evaluate the influence of context and culture on education systems.
  4. Evaluate the positives and negatives of various educational pedagogies.
  5. Reflect on how their own education system was formed, where it is now and where it may go in the future.
  6. Demonstrate an overall understanding of the importance of considering the goals of education.
Assessments
  • Continuous Assessment (100%)
Teachers
Reading List
  1. "Theories and Approaches to Learning in the Early Years (Critical Issues in the Early Years)" by Linda Miller (Editor), Linda Pound (Editor)
    Publisher: Sage
  2. "Alternative Education for the 21st Century: Philosophies, Approaches" by Philip A. Woods (Editor), Glenys J. Woods (Editor)
    Publisher: Palgrave Macmillan
  3. "Introduction to Comparative and International Education" by Jennifer Marshall
    Publisher: Sage
The above information outlines module CN2107: "European Educational Approaches, Policies and Practices" and is valid from 2020 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.