This module will consider the position of men in society from both a historical and contemporary perspective. This understanding will then be used to explore the role of men in the lives of children and within education. The following areas will be covered:

• Concepts of masculinities: fatherhood, sexuality, roles and the body;

• Men as fathers: Knowledge of fatherhood, common aspects of the role in parenting and the cultural dimension of fatherhood;

• Fathers and the well-being of young children

• De-constructing the exclusive focus on women in the nurturing and bonding with children;

• Variables affecting the role of fathers

• International perspectives on the role of father

• Fatherhood and risk (dysfunctional fathers and absent fathers)

• The role of men in young children's settings

• Examination of national strategies and international strategies to get fathers involved in young children’s activities and programmes

Assessment Method: 1 x 3 hour examination or 1 x 3,000 word assignment