Course Resources Archive

This module increases students' understanding of the philosophical underpinnings of professional practice working with children at play. The module considers the nature of play, professions and professionalism and also the nature of ethical theory and reflection. The module combines philosophical reflection on the nature of professional practice related professions with the purpose of developing the student's sense of themselves as reflective practitioners

A critical exploration of applied ethics in the institutional and ideological setting of practice in children’s play; a critical exploration of three key theoretical families (deontology, utilitarianism, virtue theory) in order to reveal the contested nature of ethics; a critical exploration of postmodern ethics such as the feminist ethics of care and ethics of an encounter; a critical exploration of the practical implications that emanate from the different theoretical positions; a critical exploration and application of a range of issues relevant to professional practice with children at play (e.g. care, consent, paternalism, responsibility, trust) will be explored and applied to the student's professional context.

A student passing this module should be able to:

1. demonstrate a critical understanding of applied ethics in the institutional and ideological setting in which their practice develops;
2. evaluate the practical implications that flow from different theoretical positions;
3. critically evaluate ethical issues pertinent to professional practice;
4. engage in reflective and rigorous argumentation on contentious issues through case study work, and real and hypothetical dilemma situations.

The Library Catalogue contains full details of the current reading list for this module. Further details may also be found in the Module Guide.