Language and Cultural Diversity

This module will introduce students to current research and theoretical frameworks in relation to linguistic and cultural diversity in early childhood settings. Students will develop a critical awareness of the influence of cultural and linguistic diversity on children’s early educational development. It will explore the acquisition of first (L1) and second (L2) languages from birth to six years, and will examine the various ways in which early childhood education programmes can respond to the learning needs and preferences of young children from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. The themes of celebrating cultural and linguistic diversity and equality approaches in early childhood education will be explored, and will include pedagogical and interactional approaches to the promotion of language development in diverse settings. Students will develop an emerging understanding of how to use a range of strategies within the context of Aistear, including play, storytelling, formulaic expressions, rhymes and songs, drama, communicative games and dialogue, in order to foster rich language interactions and promote language learning opportunities for all children. A particular focus will be placed on language education within the Irish-medium immersion pre-school setting- naíonraí.