Learning and teaching in the primary years
Qualification dates
| Start |
End |
|
|
This key introductory module covers a range of themes relating to primary education including children’s learning, inclusive education, play and creativity, home-school liaison, and the curriculum areas of English, mathematics and science. You will also develop the knowledge and skills needed to work collaboratively and equitably in a range of settings. These include evaluating and communicating information effectively to others, using digital technologies effectively for study, online collaboration and to support your continuing professional development, planning and managing time, identifying strengths and areas for development, and seeking and learning from feedback. This module will give you a sound foundation for further study relevant to a variety of roles within education.
What you will study
You will develop your understanding of the ways in which teachers teach, the curriculum that guides children’s learning, the activities that children do, and professional decision making in schools. The module will give you insights into approaches for supporting children&/courses/qualifications/details/e103/39;s learning across the whole primary curriculum, including the importance of play, creativity and talk. You will also focus on learning and teaching in the curriculum areas of English, maths and science.
Through studying the module you will acquire:
- knowledge of the nature of primary education, current issues and new developments
- insights into how children learn, and what adults can do to promote their learning
- an understanding of the principles that underpin primary education policy and classroom practice
- an awareness of some current theories and research that support primary education
- insights into inclusive and anti-racist practice in schools
- understanding of supporting wellbeing for primary staff and children
- an appreciation of the complementary nature of home and school learning and the role of parents and the caregivers in children’s education
- skills related to academic reading and writing, including studying effectively online
- the ability to plan for and review your own academic and professional learning
If you are not currently working or volunteering in a school, we strongly recommend arranging between 2 and 10 days in a school for children aged 3–121. During this time, you should observe teaching and learning processes and gain exposure to a practical educational context. If you cannot visit a school, the module materials provide examples of children’s learning across a range of phases and contexts.
1Access to schools will require you to meet the ‘fit person’ criteria, in your country, to work with children. You and your setting are responsible for ensuring you meet these requirements, not the OU.
Entry requirements
There are no formal academic or experiential requirements to study this module.
If you’re not sure you’re ready, .
What's included
Print and online study materials including 18 study topics presented in two books and online; interactive online tasks and materials; a website to structure and guide each week of study through resources including audio-visual material, an online module guide, online forums and the module Assessment Guide.
Computing requirements
- Primary device – A desktop or laptop computer. It’s possible to access some materials on a mobile phone, tablet or Chromebook; however, they may not be suitable as your primary device.
- Peripheral device – Headphones/earphones with a built-in microphone for online tutorials.
- Our OU Study app operates on supported versions of Android and iOS.
- Operating systems – Windows 10 or 11 or macOS Ventura (or higher).
- Internet access – Broadband or mobile connection.
- Browser – Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge are recommended; Mozilla Firefox and Safari may be suitable.