Handbook : Unit informationEdith Cowan University

School: Education

This unit information may be updated and amended immediately prior to semester. To ensure you have the correct outline, please check it again at the beginning of semester.

• Unit Title

  How Children Learn Literacy: Processes, Development, Difficulties

• Unit Code

  LAN6124

• Year

  2021

• Enrolment Period

  1

• Version

  2

• Credit Points

  15

• Full Year Unit

  N

• Mode of Delivery

  On Campus
  Online

• Unit Coordinator

  Dr Janet HUNTER

---

Description

This unit addresses theories and models of literacy learning with particular reference to students with literacy learning difficulties. Teachers will examine issues in the prevention of literacy learning difficulties, early intervention and ongoing support for students who, for a variety of reasons, have not made expected progress. Critical evaluation of the latest research literature in the area will be undertaken, with emphasis on the relationship between theory and teaching practice. Teachers will apply their knowledge in practical situations. There will be some scope for students to specialise in specific areas of interest.

Equivalent Rule

Unit was previously coded LAN4114, LAN5124

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this unit students should be able to:

1. Research, analyse, evaluate and communicate the theoretical concepts and best practice pedagogy for effective literacy instruction, focussing on students who experience difficulties.
2. Review, analyse and evaluate practices in literacy instruction in light of current evidence-based research in literacy instruction for students who experience difficulties.
3. Review, analyse and synthesise knowledge of the pedagogical practices for literacy education to create a philosophy that underpins effective teaching and learning for students who experience literacy difficulties.
4. Review, analyse, synthesise and evaluate school literacy leadership strategies and practices in light of current evidence-based research.
5. Work collaboratively with colleagues to evaluate and improve planning, teaching and assessment approaches for children with literacy difficulties as part of ongoing professional development.

Unit Content

1. Critical analysis of models of literacy learning, including the role of phonological awareness and phonics.
2. Critical analysis of research literature.
3. Identification procedures for students who are at risk of, or who have developed literacy learning difficulties.
4. Issues in the provision of support for teachers and parents who are working with students who have literacy learning difficulties.
5. Issues related to the social construction of learning difficulties.
6. Strategies and programs for learners with difficulties in literacy that can be implemented at the school, class, small group and individual level, with particular reference to differentiation of the curriculum for these students.
7. The implications of these models for literacy learning and teaching.

Learning Experience

ON-CAMPUS

Students will attend on campus classes as well as engage in learning activities through ECUs LMS

For more information see the Semester Timetable

ONLINE

Students will engage in learning experiences through ECUs LMS as well as additional ECU l

Additional Learning Experience Information

Lectures, workshops, tutorials, use of electronic media, practical projects and independent study.

Assessment

GS1 GRADING SCHEMA 1 Used for standard coursework units

Students please note: The marks and grades received by students on assessments may be subject to further moderation. All marks and grades are to be considered provisional until endorsed by the relevant School Progression Panel.

Core Reading(s)

• Dougherty Stahl, K. A., Flanigan, K., & McKenna, M. C. (2020). Assessment for Reading Instruction (4th ed.). Guilford Press. Retrieved from https://ebookcentral.proquest.com/lib/ecu/detail.action?docID=5969474
• Kilpatrick, D. A. (2015). Essentials of assessing, preventing and overcoming reading difficulties. Wiley. Retrieved from https://ebookcentral.proquest.com/lib/ECU/detail.action?docID=4039197

---