Education

This course will introduce teacher candidates to the roles and professional skills and practices that they will need to support each and every child and family in quality early childhood programs. The importance of positive and respectful relationships with families, communities and children will be emphasized. Essential concepts of developmentally appropriate approaches to learning for children including those who are diverse in culture, language, ability, race, and life circumstances will be stressed. Students are introduced to practices, strategies, materials, and resources they can use to help enhance multicultural and anti-bias experiences in the early childhood classroom. Discussion and practice in upholding ethical standards for ethics, equity and other professional practices will be included.

Teaching practicum and integration seminar for Child Development Associate candidates, Child Development/Child Care and Preschool - Grade 3 Education majors. During the 90 hours of placement, students will observe and interact with children and teaching professionals. Focus will be on development and implementation of appropriate curriculum. A series of seminars will integrate the teaching practicum with core concepts of the early childhood profession. (Placements usually occur during the day; child care employees may use their workplace as the placement.

Principles and theories of the development of the child from birth through adolescence. Intellectual, psychosocial and physical development will be studied with an emphasis on the role of family and care-giving adults in the optimal growth and development of the child. In addition to the lecture, students must be available for a three-hour-per-week practicum with a children’s group. (Placements usually occur during the day; early childhood employees may use their workplace as the placement.) Meets General Education requirement for Social Science.

Survey of the major categories and types of exceptionality (e.g. mental retardation, learning disabilities, giftedness). Topics include characteristics, causes, identification/assessment, educational remediation approaches and transition to adulthood.