Course Catalogue

Learners and Learning 1 EDUC1140

  • Academic Session: 2026-27
  • School: School of Education
  • Credits: 20
  • Level: Level 1 (SCQF level 7)
  • Typically Offered: Runs Throughout Semesters 1 and 2
  • Available to Visiting Students: Yes
  • Collaborative Online International Learning: No
  • Curriculum For Life: No

Short Description

This course explores child development and influences on learning, with a focus on cognitive, physical, social and emotional growth in the early years. Students will examine how children learn through play, creativity and interaction, identifying factors that support or hinder development. The course fosters an inclusive, reflective mindset, helping student teachers apply developmental insights to explore learning environments where all children are valued and supported.

Timetable

Students spend 5 weeks on placement and so this course will be timetabled around the placement days/ weeks.

Requirements of Entry

International and Erasmus must have approval from Education Study Abroad Coordinator

Excluded Courses

None

Co-requisites

None

Assessment

30%: Set exercise online test to assess learning theory and child development knowledge (approx. 500 word equivalent)

70% Portfolio to evidence an understanding of how child development and educational and learning theory relates to practice (1500 words)

Main Assessment In: December and April/May

Course Aims

The aim of this course is to develop student teachers as reflective, enquiring and empowered professionals who understand how children grow and learn cognitively, physically, socially and emotionally. The course emphasises play, creativity and relationships as central to learning, enabling students to connect theories of development and learning with curriculum, policy and practice. Through this understanding, student teachers will begin to explore inclusive approaches that support all learners to flourish.

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

By the end of this course students will be able to:

 

■ Demonstrate an understanding of key theories of early learning and child development (cognitive, physical, social and emotional).

■ Observe and reflect on how learners learn through play, creativity and relationships making links to relevant developmental and learning theories.

■ Describe inclusive approaches that help support all learners to participate and flourish.

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

No exceptions