Keeping it real – ECEC Training Dolls session
On a visit to our Mt Evelyn campus we found a lot going on in the Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) class. The day was all about simulation as the students were able to care for an infant during class, well not an infant in the human form, a training doll to be precise. The students were able to put themselves in real life situations as these state of the art dolls cried, slept, needed changing and got hungry just like the real thing.
Their tutor, Anja Laukart explained that over the years students were limited when it came to on hands experience with infants, so these training dolls have become an important part of the curriculum. Students learn more when they are able to practise real life scenarios and as the saying goes “Practice makes perfect”. Here is what some of the students had to say about the experience.
“The dolls felt realistic, not fake at all. One of the reasons for this is they are the same body weight as an infant, I thoroughly enjoyed the session” – Rebecca
“Having to still participate in class while looking after the doll was a challenge, but I like challenges so the session really highlighted the importance of multi skilling. I really felt like I achieved something today it was great.” – Merabel
“It was comforting just to hold the baby, whoops I meant doll.” – Megan
If you’re interested in working with children and could see yourself making a career in the Children’s Services sector, contact us today to find out more about your options. We are currently taking enrolments in both Certificate III and Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care for Term 2, scheduled to commence in April.
