ECED 5000 - The Foundations of Early Childhood Education
Course Description
This course provides the learner with an overview of the Early Childhood Education (ECE) profession. The course includes information on how an ECE teacher creates a healthy, safe, and supportive learning environment for children as well as building relationships with families. Early Childhood concepts such as Developmentally Appropriate Practices, the importance of Play as a teaching strategy, and Intentional Teaching are woven throughout the course. It includes a review of state and national ECE standards and exposes the learner to the ethical and legal standards of working with young children.Learner Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
- Understand the Foundations of Early Childhood Education, including identifying key historical people and theories that influence current ECE practices and be able to discuss current issues and trends.
- Understand and follow the NAEYC Professional Code of Conduct.
- Understand the personal and professional attributes of an effective ECE teacher.
- Understand the standards and professional organizations that govern the ECE profession.
- Understand the dimensions of Developmentally Appropriate Practice including factors teachers must take into consideration when making decisions, creating a caring community of learners, and adapting for individual differences in development as well as cultural and language differences.
- Demonstrate the concepts of Intentional Teaching including building effective partnerships, guiding young children, enhancing learning and development, and assessing their learning and development
- Evaluate the uses and pitfalls of assessing young children,
- Evaluate the pros and cons of using digital media for communicating with parents and instructing young children.