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'It would appear that an increasing number of parents in Ireland are now recognising the importance of early childhood education, with many looking to enrol their children in pre-schools and Montessori facilities.' (Press release, 2007) (i) Discuss the purpose of education in relation to the physical, emotional, moral and intellectual development of the child - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 3(a) - 2008
Question 3(a)
'It would appear that an increasing number of parents in Ireland are now recognising the importance of early childhood education, with many looking to enrol their ch... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:'It would appear that an increasing number of parents in Ireland are now recognising the importance of early childhood education, with many looking to enrol their children in pre-schools and Montessori facilities.' (Press release, 2007) (i) Discuss the purpose of education in relation to the physical, emotional, moral and intellectual development of the child - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 3(a) - 2008
Step 1
Discuss the purpose of education in relation to the physical, emotional, moral and intellectual development of the child.
Answer
Education serves multiple roles in a child's development:
Physical Development
Education promotes physical development through activities that enhance manual dexterity, hand-eye coordination, and overall body awareness. Subjects like Home Economics and Physical Education include exercises that are key for developing coordination and strength.
Emotional Development
Emotional skills are crucial, as children learn to interact with peers and adults, practicing empathy and responsiveness to feelings such as distress. Educational settings teach children how to manage their emotions and develop relationships, providing crucial support as they navigate social landscapes.
Moral Development
Education fosters moral values and ethical reasoning. Through curriculums like Religious Education and programs that emphasize ethics, students begin understanding right from wrong and develop a sense of justice and respect for others.
Intellectual Development
Education stimulates intellectual growth through exposure to various subjects like literacy and numeracy, encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving skills. A well-rounded curriculum allows children to develop holistically and prepares them for future learning.
Step 2
Comment on how socio-economic status impacts on equality of opportunity in education.
Answer
Socio-economic status significantly influences educational opportunities:
Middle to Higher Socio-Economic Status
Children from higher socio-economic statuses are more likely to complete secondary education and proceed to tertiary education. They often have greater financial stability, access to resources that enhance learning, and parental involvement that encourages educational attainment.
Lower Socio-Economic Status
Conversely, children from lower socio-economic backgrounds may face barriers such as having less access to educational materials, extracurricular activities, and community support. These disparities can lead to lower completion rates and restricted opportunities for further education.
Step 3
Name and give an account of one national initiative that improves access to education.
Answer
One notable initiative is the Early Start pre-school programme. This program is designed for 3-4-year-olds in disadvantaged areas and offers a community-based educational environment. Managed by the Department of Education and Science, it aims to provide structured learning that fosters cognitive and social development. The initiative also seeks to engage parents and assist in breaking cycles of disadvantage by promoting educational engagement early in a child’s life.