Language, Text and Mathematics
The field of study called Language, Text and Mathematics is an interdisciplinary course based on the subjects of mathematics, Norwegian and pedagogy.
Children’s mathematical and linguistic development, conceptual learning in mathematics, children’s literature, media culture, as well as mathematical understanding and ability to explore and solve problems will play a key role in the field of study. The content of the field of study will be the communication of literature by Norwegian and Sámi authors, and mathematical areas such as shapes, space, measurement, patterns and numeracy. Kindergarten/school transition, parental collaboration and guidance will also be key. Supervised professional training is an integral part of the field of study.
Knowledge
Candidates
• have basic knowledge about the importance of the language, text and mathematics environment for all children’s play and participation in everyday activities
• have basic knowledge about the importance of play and conversation for children’s text experiences, language and mathematics development, and how language and mathematics are used as tools for exploration and thinking
• have knowledge about aesthetic and bodily aspects of children’s linguistic and mathematical development
• have knowledge about children’s wonder and exploratory work methods related to language, written language, children’s literature and mathematics
• have knowledge about children’s mathematical development, including the development of numerical understanding, spatial awareness and geometric understanding
• have knowledge about measuring and counting in the Sámi language
Skills
Candidates
• can observe, assess, facilitate and support children’s linguistic, textual and mathematical development in light of the kindergarten’s pedagogical activities
• are linguistic role models and interlocutors who promote children’s active participation, development and formation
• can create an inclusive and varied play and learning environment for mathematical, linguistic and written exploration
• can facilitate narration and reading aloud, and ensure diversity in children’s text experiences and reading communities
• can guide, lead and critically reflect on work involving language, text and mathematics in kindergartens, including the use of screening
• can use children’s fiction and non-fiction, modern text and media cultures, in Norwegian and Sámi, in play and learning
• can master digital tools for didactic and communicative purposes and demonstrate digital judgement
General competence
Candidates
• can participate actively and critically in contemporary kindergarten discussions related to language, text and mathematics, as well as discuss ethical and academic-pedagogical issues with staff, parents/guardians and external partners
• can view things from different perspectives in connection with the kindergarten/school transition
• can exercise pedagogical leadership in the work of including and acknowledging all children’s linguistic, textual and mathematical experiences
• are aware of the importance of the linguistic, textual and mathematical play and learning environment for children’s formation and democratic participation
• master Norwegian orally and in writing (Bokmål and Nynorsk) and skilfully use the language in a professional context
Composite assessment, grading scale A-E, Best A, Fail F
Compulsory participation, 80% attendance requirement in teaching and scheduled activity. Represents 0/100 of the grade, assessed as Approved/Not approved, set as a condition for obtaining a final course grade.
Coursework 1 - Oral presentation of group assignment, academic presentation, represents 0/100 of the grade, assessed as approved - not approved
Coursework 2 - Didactic assignment, written in secondary language form (sidemål), represents 0/100 of the grade, assessed as approved - not approved
Portfolio consisting of two parts:
• Digital narrative, pedagogical documentation
• Academic presentation, written in groups, Norwegian bokmål
Supervision is provided regarding portfolio work. The student then submits the complete portfolio and the portfolio is given an overall grade. Portfolio represents 100/100 of the grade, grading scale A to E, where A is the best grade and F is a fail.