ECED 2385 - Math and Science in Early Childhood

3 sem hrs cr

Math and Science in Early Childhood is a course covering the standards, principles, and practices in teaching mathematics and science to young children ages birth through eight. The course emphasizes developing an integrated math and science curriculum that includes appropriate content, processes, environment and materials, and child-centered choices. Field experience is required. (Formerly ECED 2085)

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

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

• identify the concepts children are developing in math and science.
• identify standards for math and science for young children.
• understand the commonalities between math and science.
• know about variations in individual and cultural learning styles and the need for curriculum integration.
• plan and implement experiences for children to engage in play that incorporate math and science.
• demonstrate understanding through planning appropriate experiences for children that support the development of the specific child outcomes in five areas: number and operations, geometry and spatial sense, patterns and measurement, scientific skills and methods, and scientific knowledge.
• demonstrate appropriate individual child assessment methods in math and science learning.
• use documentation to enhance parents’ understanding of how a young child learns mathematical skills and knowledge.

NAEYC Initial Standards

The following standards will be addressed in this course:

• Standard 2: Building Family and Community Relationships
  • 2b: Supporting and engaging families and communities through respectful, reciprocal relationships
• Standard 3: Observing, documenting and assessing to support young children and families
  • 3b. Knowing about and using observation, documentation, and other appropriate assessment tools and approaches, including the use of technology in documentation, assessment and data collection
  • 3d: Knowing about assessment partnerships with families and with professional colleagues to build effective learning environments
• Standard 4: Using Developmentally effective approaches
  • 4a. Understanding positive relationships and supportive interactions as the foundation of their work with young children
• Standard 5: Using content knowledge to build meaningful curriculum
  • 5b: knowing and using the central concepts, inquiry tools, and structures of content areas or academic disciplines
• Standard 6: Becoming a Professional
  • 6e: Engaging in informed advocacy for young children and the early childhood profession

NAEYC Supportive Skills

The following supportive skills are addressed in this course:

• SS 1: Self-Assessment and Self-Discovery
• SS 2: Mastering and Applying Foundational Concepts from General Education
• SS 3: Written and Verbal Communication Skills
• SS 4: Making Connections between Prior Knowledge and New Learning