ECED 1310 - Introduction to Early Childhood Education

3 sem hrs cr

Introduction to Early Childhood Education is an introduction to the early childhood profession, including an emphasis on professionalism and developmentally appropriate practice. The course also includes an overview of history of early education; theoretical program models; different types of early childhood programs, community resources; professional organizations, and contemporary trends and issues in programs for children ages birth through eight. Field experience is required.
(Formerly ECED 1010)

Transfer (UT) or Non-Transfer Course (UN): UT

By the end of the course, students will be able to…

• demonstrate an understanding of the early childhood profession and its historical, philosophical, and social foundations, and understand how these foundations influence current thought and practice.
• possess knowledge of the diversity of settings, teacher qualifications, types of employment, locations, etc., in the early childhood field.
• understand the importance of reflective thinking in becoming an effective early childhood teacher.
• use knowledge obtained from professional early childhood education journals.
• recognize basic components of a quality early childcare program and facility.
• identify the goals and basic components of several prominent theoretical curriculum models (i.e. Montessori, High Scope, Reggio Emilia, and Project Approach).
• know about and use the NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct to resolve basic ethical dilemmas in early education.
• define developmentally appropriate practice in relation to age, individual, and social and cultural contexts.

Course Objectives

Throughout the course, students will practice…

• understanding the early childhood profession, its historical, philosophical, and social foundations, and how these foundations influence current thought and practice.
• using research-based techniques that promote diversity with young children.
• learning how to effectively reflect on their teaching and learning.
• using professional early childhood education journals.
• recognizing the basic components of a quality early childcare program and facility.
• identifying the goals and basic components of several prominent, theoretical curriculum models (i.e. Montessori, High Scope, Reggio Emilia, and Project Approach).
• using the NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct to resolve basic ethical dilemmas in early education.