472-120 Contexts of Development

This subject will explore Singaporean, Australian and international approaches to the identification, interpretation and management of social stratification and diversity in the context of the education and socialisation of young children. The subject will examine social diversity and the world of the young child, with an emphasis on Singaporean, Australian and international approaches to ethnic minority status, cultural pluralism (including multiculturalism) and bilingualism. The disciplines of sociology, social anthropology, history and philosophy will be employed in discussing a variety of topics including changing concepts and images of childhood, children's rights, diverse family structures and circumstances, various government policies related to the management of ethnic diversity, and the impact of various national and international agencies and institutions on the education and socialisation of young children.

Essays and assignments totalling 4000 words.

Resources provided to distance students: students will be provided with a course handbook, subject guide, study guide and a book of readings.

• G Payne ed., Social Divisions. MacMillan, 2000.