Early Childhood Education, ECE*

The following information is directly from the 2011-2012 College Catalog, pg. 105. To download a full pdf version of the catalog, click here.

ECE*101, 3 Credits, Introduction to Early Childhood Education

A study of the historical, philosophical and social perspectives of early care and education. Emphasis will be on modern development and trends, along with an understanding of the organization and composition of early childhood education settings, which include curriculum materials, learning environments and equipment. This course will involve 10 hours of field observation and participation in a preschool setting. This is a "D" course. Prerequisites: Eligible for ENG*063 and ENG*073.

ECE*103, 3 Credits, Creative Art Experiences for Children

The exploration of the relationship of creative art to the total educational program of the young child. Experimentation with the use of various media techniques and methods will be included.

ECE*106, 3 Credits, Music and Movement for Children

An investigation of the role of music and movement in early childhood development. Emphasis will be on the elements of songs, circle games, rhythmic activities and instruments.

ECE*131, 3 Credits, Children's Literature

This course offers an overview of children¡¯s literature including its history, genres, and leading authors and illustrators. It covers selection and critical study of books for children, including folklore, poetry, fiction and nonfiction. Issues related to children's literature and literature extension activities will also be explored. Prerequisites: ECE*101 and ENG*101.

ECE*141, 3 Credits, Infant/Toddler Growth & Development

An introduction to the care and teaching of infants and toddlers, which emphasizes the interrelationship between social, emotional, cognitive, physical and language development. Age appropriate curriculum strategies will be based on developmental theories. Components of a high quality program will be explored. Students are required to complete 10 hours of field observation and participation in an infant/ toddler program.

ECE*176, 3 Credits, Health, Safety, and Nutrition

The relationship between health, safety and nutrition and child development will be explored. Emphasis will be on the strategies needed to implement a safe, healthy and nutritionally sound program. Community agencies and resources that benefit children and families will be explored.

ECE*180, 3 Credits, CDA Preparation Course

Child Development Associate Preparation Course: This course will explore the process a student must undertake to be credentialed as a Child Development Associate. In addition, the course will provide a thorough review of each of the eight content areas as identified by the Council for early Childhood Professional Recognition; assist the student in the development of a Professional Resource File; and provide a meaningful field placement opportunity.

ECE*182, 3 Credits, Child Development

This course is concerned with human development from prenatal through the elementary education years. The physical, emotional, social and cognitive benchmarks through successive stages of development will be studied in depth. Investigation of the familial and societal influences that impinge upon the child during the course of development. This course includes 20 hours of field observation and participation in an early childhood program.

ECE*210, 3 Credits, Observation & Participation Seminar

The study of observing and recording children's behavior, focusing on objective observations and the interpretation and understanding of the behavior. Observation and participation placements in approved early childhood settings are required. This course consists of 90 hours of field observation and participation in an approved preschool setting. Prerequisite: ECE*101.

ECE*215, 3 Credits, The Exceptional Learner

The study of the exceptional or special needs child. Emphasis is on the history, laws, concepts, practices and terminology used by professionals in the field. Educators are assisted in understanding the needs of students with exceptionalities and helped to identify the characteristics, issues, and instructional considerations for students with disabilities. This course consists of 25 hours of field observation and participation in a special education preschool setting. Prerequisite: ECE*101. This is a "D" course.

ECE*231, 3 Credits, Early Language and Literacy Development

Introduction to language and literacy development in the young child. Students will explore the early childhood language arts curriculum including speaking, listening, writing, and reading skills. The teacher's role and methods of creating a literacy-rich environment that engages children in creative, developmentally appropriate language-arts experiences will be examined. Students will create plans and materials for use with children. Prerequisite: ECE*101.

ECE*275, 3 Credits, Child, Family and School Relations

An in depth look at the child, the family, and the relationship between the school and the family. An understanding of child behavior and its guidance will be examined, as will communication with families. Students will explore today's families and how schools can develop working relationships with families. Prerequisite: ECE*101.

ECE*295, 6 Credits, Student Teaching Practicum

Guided observation, participation and supervised student teaching in NAEYC accredited centers or kindergartens is required. Students will manage a classroom independently, plan, organize, implement and evaluate classroom activities. Students will complete 220 hours of student teaching. The weekly seminars extend the experience of student teachers. In addition to the prerequisites below, students must take 9 more credits of Early Childhood Education courses with a grade of "C" or better. Prerequisite: ENG*101, PSY*204, ECE*101, ECE*210 and permission of instructor.

From College Catalog 2011-2012, p. 105-105