EDUC 2130 - EFW Foundations of Early Childhood Education

Abstract

3 credit hours Including 25 hours of Fieldwork Room TBD Course Description The purpose of this interactive course is to introduce the study of physical, social, emotional, cognitive, and aesthetic development in young children (birth-grade 2). Developmentally appropriate practices, classroom management and guidance, parent involvement, assessment, and reporting. Approaches to learning, including behaviorist, maturationist, constructivist, brain-based learning, and the Project Approach will be introduced. Adapting instruction for learners with diverse needs, case studies, problem solving, role playing, team research, and hands-on activities are among the learning strategies incorporated into this course. ___ Essential Understandings (Big Ideas) Early childhood educators are caring, reflective, inclusive, collaborative professionals as well as passionate advocates for young children. Various educational philosophies, theorists and Developmentally Appropriate Practice will be introduced. The social, emotional, and physical development of young children are explored in this class.

____ Essential Questions 1. How do Early Childhood Educators (ECE) create a learning environment using DAP (Developmentally Appropriate Practice)? 2. How do EC teachers support children and create a program that promotes learning and social interaction through play? 3. How do we encourage teachers to observe, document, assess and support young children and their families? 4. How do we focus on promoting an understanding of communication with young children?