ECE 250 Introduction to Early Childhood Education

This course is an introduction to early childhood education, with emphasis on the diverse physical, cognitive, social/emotional, unique educational and developmental needs of young children birth-second grade. Introduction and overview of the field of Early Childhood Education (ECE). Topics include: a history and theoretical foundation of early care and education, types of early childhood programs and settings, an overview of child care licensing and regulation, professional development in ECE, working with families, designing the classroom environment, ethical conduct, daily schedules, curriculum planning, positive guidance, child development, components of the early care and education system, and current trends and issues in ECE. The course also emphasizes the importance of developmentally appropriate practice (DAP) in the field. This course requires 15 hours of field experience in an early childhood or early childhood special education classroom. Field experiences are focused learning opportunities that require the student to practice specific skills working with young children.

Credits

3.00