ECE*101, Introduction to Early Childhood Education (3 credits)
Gen Ed Competencies: Continuing Learning/Information Literacy
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 hrs. of field observation and participation in a preschool setting. Prerequisites: Eligible for ENG*101E or ENG*101. (Updated Fall 2017) Fulfills a “D” course requirement for students who enrolled in a degree program prior to the Fall 2016 semester.
ECE*103, Creative Art Experiences for Children (3 credits)
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. (Updated Fall 2017)
ECE*106, Music and Movement for Children (3 credits)
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. (Updated Fall 2017)
ECE*131, Children’s Literature (3 credits)
Gen Ed Competencies: Continuing Learning/Information Literacy
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 either ENG*101E or ENG*101E. (Updated Fall 2017)
ECE*141, Infant/Toddler Growth & Development (3 credits)
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 hrs. of field observation and participation in an infant/ toddler program. (Updated Fall 2017)
ECE*176, Health, Safety, and Nutrition (3 credits)
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. (Updated Fall 2017)
ECE*180, CDA Preparation Course (3 credits)
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. (Updated Fall 2017)
ECE*210, Observation & Participation Seminar (3 credits)
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 hrs. of field observation and participation in an approved preschool setting. Prerequisite: ECE*101. (Updated November 2014)
ECE*215, The Exceptional Learner (3 credits)
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 hrs. of field observation and participation in a special education preschool setting. Prerequisite: ECE*101. (Updated November 2014) (Fulfills a “D” course requirement for students who enrolled in a degree program prior to the Fall 2016 semester.)
ECE*231, Early Language and Literacy Development (3 credits)
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. (Updated November 2014)
ECE*275, Child, Family and School Relations (3 credits)
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. (Updated November 2014) (Fulfills a “D” course requirement for students who enrolled in a degree program prior to the Fall 2016 semester.)
ECE*295, Student Teaching Practicum (6 Credits)
Guided observation, participation and supervised student teaching in NAEYC accredited center or kindergarten is required. The purpose of student teaching is to enable the student to apply child development theory in a learning environment and to work with children under close supervision. Students will manage a classroom independently, plan, organize, implement and evaluate classroom activities. Students will complete 220 hrs. of student teaching. Weekly seminars devoted to issues in Early Childhood Education and the experience of student teachers will extend the individual’s student teaching experience. 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*101E or ENG*101,PSY*204, ECE*101, ECE*210. (Updated July 2019)
