Foundations of Early Childhood Education

Catalog description

Students explore historical and current research in early childhood education, primary models of curriculum and pedagogy in the field, and the relationship between critical aspects of young children's development and the creation of inclusive learning opportunities for all children, including children at risk. Students examine issues in developing and implementing high quality early childhood education experiences for young children with and without disabilities, including the influence of family, culture, and community, the needs of children at risk ( e.g. poverty, immigrant status, English Language Learners), and the role of assessment in early learning. Students are introduced to the fundamentals of lesson planning. Standards for professional practice developed by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) will also inform and provide a framework for the course and the program. This course is only offered at the St. Joseph's College campus.