World first Early Childhood Studies specialisation from University of Guelph-Humber

Canada’s University of Guelph-Humber (U of GH) will offer a world first Early Childhood Studies (ECS) specialisation when third year students return for Winter 2025. 

The new specialistion – Children’s Futures – explores the intersection of technological advancement, and how this impacts children’s lives. 

Those who choose this specialisation will learn more deeply how technology, privacy laws, human connection, and ethical issues, like the use of artificial intelligence, play a role when it comes to the needs, learning, and development of children. 

Central courses for this specialty include Ethics & Privacy with Children, Technology & Innovation, and Designing for the Future.

ECS Chair Dr. Nikki Martyn believes the specialistion will prepare students for addressing the multifaceted needs and challenges of children in the rapidly evolving global landscape.

U of GH will also have a corresponding lab – the Child Futures Innovation PlayHub – which will facilitate ongoing research, exploring how technology shapes children’s experiences for a safe and healthy future. 

This lab will be open to all students, not just those in the ECS program, due to its interdisciplinary nature. 

Events at the lab, such as SparkSpaces (where play and connection spark ideas and innovation) and the FuturesMind collective (where play and purpose in a changing world is explored) will allow students from multiple disciplines to gather data, explore concepts, and understand more deeply the interconnectedness of theory and practice. 

“This specialisation also incorporates human-centred design and forecasting through its Designing for the Future course, equipping students to create future-ready solutions that balance technological advancements with deep human connection and sustainability,” Dr. Martyn said. 

“Graduates are prepared to shape a future that prioritises the holistic well-being of children.”

For students interested in this area, possible careers include policy development, education innovation, child advocacy, or even roles within organisations that reflect the future of children and technology, such as UNICEF’s child futurists.

“The most valuable thing students can do is remain curious, adaptable, play with ideas, and be committed to supporting the well-being and development of children in whatever capacity they choose,” Dr. Martyn said in closing.

U of GH is the first institution in the world to offer this specialisation. Learn more through the ECS page.