Introduction to Early Childhood Education

Course Description

This course provides a background of early childhood education including the development of care and educational arrangements for young children. Public policy development, program models, and theories of early childhood education are introduced. Emphasis is placed on professional standards and current issues in the field. Organizational factors to consider when administering early childhood programs are explored.

Topics and Objectives

Foundations of Early Childhood Education

• Identify the terminology used in the early childhood profession.
• Identify the roots of early childhood education.
• Analyze the historical developments of early childhood education.
• Identify the challenges faced by early childhood educators.

The Professional Field of Early Childhood Education

• Examine public policies on early childhood education programs and professional development.
• Examine the professional field of early childhood education, qualifications, competencies, opportunities, and professionalism.
• Examine professional educational standards in the field of early childhood education.

Ethical Standards and Professional Guidelines

• Examine the code of ethics guiding the early childhood educator.
• Examine the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) Code of Ethical Conduct.
• Identify standards of confidentiality, sensitivity, and respect for children, families, and early childhood professionals.
• Identify the laws pertaining to children's rights in the community.
• Identify the certification requirements of early childhood professionals in the community.

Theories and Models of Early Childhood Education

• Examine the theories and models of early childhood education.
• Examine the changing perspective and vision of the childhood years.

Structure of Early Childhood Education Programs and Learning Environments

• Describe the components of an early childhood education program.
• Identify the essential elements of an effective preschool classroom.
• Examine how the physical, motor, cognitive, and affective development of young children impacts the structure of programs and classrooms.
• Identify the organizational factors to consider when administering early childhood programs.
• Examine the inclusion of special needs children and families in early childhood education.

Current Issues

• Examine the nature of early childhood education and its role in contemporary society.
• Identify the connections between early childhood education and other related disciplines.
• Analyze the current controversial topics in early childhood education.
• Examine the use of technology in early childhood education.
• Examine the concept of cultural diversity and its relation to early childhood