Introduction to Early Childhood Education - CHD 120
https://courses.vccs.edu./courses/CHD120-IntroductiontoEarlyChildhoodEducation
Effective: 2016-08-01
Course Description
Introduces early childhood development through activities and experiences in early childhood, pre-kindergarten, kindergarten, and primary programs. Investigates classroom organization and procedures, and use of classroom time and materials, approaches to education for young children, professionalism, and curricular procedures.
Lecture 3 hours. Total 3 hours per week.
3 credits
The course outline below was developed as part of a statewide standardization process.
General Course Purpose
To introduce the student to the field of early childhood education, including characteristics and needs of children in a variety of early care and education settings, the role of the professional, and requirements for employment in the field.
Course Objectives
- Describe and illustrate theoretical and historical bases of early childhood education
- Classify and interpret developmental characteristics of young children from infancy through age eight
- Compare and contrast physical, cognitive, social, and emotional differences among children from infancy through age eight when planning appropriate curriculum
- Classify and critique characteristics of developmentally appropriate materials and activities
- Explain the importance of guiding daily routines and group activities for young children
- Practice techniques for creating and maintaining appropriate environments and curriculum which meet the needs of all young children
- Articulate the importance of culture in planning classroom experiences, communicating with families, and guiding behavior of young children
- Identify and explain basic health, safety, and nutritional needs of children
- Discuss positive guidance and behavior management strategies
- Describe the teacher's role in reporting suspected child abuse
- Define and demonstrate professional ethics and confidentiality when working with children and families
- Identify and apply learning standards as they relate to early childhood education: the Virginia Foundation Blocks, the Child Development Milestones, the Virginia Standards of Learning, and Core Competencies for Early Childhood Professionals.
Major Topics to be Included
- Legal and professional requirements for employment in an early childhood setting
- Emerging professional identity and educational philosophy
- Professional organizations, periodicals and journals, and advocacy practices in the field of early childhood education