BA (Honours) Education Studies (Primary)

Educational aims

This programme takes an interrogative approach to the development of students’ knowledge and understanding of the aims, values, processes and outcomes of education for children aged 3-12 (primary education) and the contexts in which these take place.

The aims of this qualification are to:

• develop students’ awareness and understanding of the philosophies, practices and provision for primary aged children including global perspectives 
• enable students to develop as skilled, creative, flexible and reflective learners able to transfer skills to a range of professional contexts 
• support students in establishing strong foundations for professional and further academic study in the field of primary education.

Learning outcomes

The qualification provides opportunities for students to develop and demonstrate knowledge and understanding, practical and professional skills in the following areas:

Knowledge and understanding

• the contextual factors, principles, issues, theories and research that influence and relate to children’s development and learning, and how these underpin and inform education policy and practices for primary aged children
• curricula for primary age children and related approaches to assessment that support progression in learning in a range of global contexts
• the ways in which ethnicity, religion, class, gender, and sexual orientation can impact on children’s learning and development, and the importance of creating inclusive learning environments
• the needs of a range of pupils, including those with Special Educational Needs, disabilities, high-attaining children and multi-lingual learners, and knowledge of provision to engage and support them from a range of global contexts
• the importance of subject knowledge in supporting children’s learning in literacy and language, mathematics and numeracy, science and use of digital technologies, and the key principles, concepts and approaches relating to children’s learning in these curriculum areas
• the political, legal, ethical and rights frameworks that guide practice with children and support their health, safety, wellbeing and achievement 
• the roles and responsibilities of stakeholders within educational settings, and the central importance of engaging with children’s voices and perspectives. 

Cognitive skills

• critically and systematically analyse and evaluate concepts, theories, policy and practice relating to child development and children’s learning
• recognise a range of theories and concepts applied in practical teaching and learning contexts, and reflect on the nature of the relationship between educational theory, policy and practice 
• consider different perspectives on educational issues and consider evidence to develop and present arguments and proposals for practice
• identify and reflect on their own attitudes, experiences and perspectives and those of others, and consider the implications for practice.

Practical and/or professional skills

On completion of this degree, you will be able to:

• work independently and collaboratively as part of a team, carry out roles allocated by the team and value the contributions of others 
• demonstrate knowledge and awareness of how to design, implement, monitor, assess and evaluate activities for children’s learning and development
• develop detailed knowledge and awareness of some of the skills needed for teaching and learning, including the promotion of mutually respectful relationships with children, families, colleagues, other professionals and the wider community
• demonstrate sensitivity and awareness of some of the contextual factors that influence children’s learning and behaviour, achievement and social interaction
• demonstrate personal and professional conduct based on mutual respect and with regard to appropriate ethical considerations, and knowledge and understanding of professional standards relevant to their context
• plan and manage time and tasks, work to deadlines, and articulate their own approaches to learning
• identify strengths and areas for development, and to seek and learn from feedback.

Key skills

• read independently and purposefully to identify and critically evaluate relevant information from a range of sources
• communicate and write accurately and clearly, using the conventions of academic writing for a range of purposes
• articulate the knowledge, skills and understanding that underpin effective practice in the education of primary aged children
• retrieve, organise and synthesise arguments, opinions and qualitative and quantitative data, and present findings and conclusions in a variety of formats
• use a range of digital technologies for study, participate in online discussion  and recognise the role of digital technologies in supporting practice and continuing professional development   
• engage in enquiry and research in the area of primary education including the importance of ethical considerations.

Teaching, learning and assessment methods

Knowledge and understanding is taught through diverse study materials, including multimedia. You will develop your knowledge and understanding through critical engagement with material. Audio-visual materials offer opportunities to hear from adults and children in schools and observe practice and a range of settings. You will work independently with the study materials but are encouraged to form self-help groups with other students communicating by forums, telephone, email etc. Tutors support your learning in online tutorials. 

The assessment process requires you to demonstrate your understanding of key concepts and theories, to present arguments, to develop and evaluate ideas and to show how you apply these in practice. You are encouraged to assess your own progress frequently through activities in the study material.

Key skills are developed through study guide activities and tutor-marked assignments (TMAs) that offer opportunities to practice and improve. Assessment is through TMAs and for OU stage 2 and 3 modules an end-of-module assessment (EMA). There are no exams.

Professional and practical skills are developed as part of an increased understanding and awareness of the experiences of children and young people, and what constitutes good practice.

You’ll be supported during your study by the OU’s unique style of teaching and assessment – which includes a personal tutor to guide and comment on your work; top quality course texts; and e-learning.