EDUC-130 Introduction to Early Childhood Education

This course is designed to increase the student's understanding of various curriculum models and approaches in Early Childhood Education. Techniques for implementing and evaluating these models and approaches will be presented through lectures, videos, classroom activities, classroom visits, field placements and guest speakers. Furthermore, the student will explore some contemporary issues and problems affecting young children and learning, such as stress, sexism, homelessness, abuse, neglect and poverty. Students are required to complete 15 hours of Field Experience outside of class time. Students are placed in a Howard County Public School or may use a K-3 school where they are currently employed.

Credits

3

Hours Weekly

3 hours weekly

Course Objectives

1. 1. Identify society’s views of childhood through a historical perspective.
2. 2. Describe the philosophies of major historical figures in early childhood education,
   as well as discuss how these philosophies influence early childhood programs
   today.
3. 3. Discuss the needs of young children and outline appropriate practices for
   programming at each stage of development.
4. 4. Identify important elements of early childhood classroom practice and philosophy
   in school settings Pre-K through 3rd grade.
5. 5. Identify various types of child care programs including those targeted for special
   populations, and describe the components of each.
6. 6. Observe a variety of programs for young children and compare and contrast the
   components of these programs.
7. 7. List the characteristics of high quality early childhood programs.
8. 8. Explain the role parents play in programs for young children and list strategies for
   promoting parent involvement.
9. 9. Identify and discuss the contemporary issues currently affecting the lives and
   learning of young children.

Course Objectives

1. 1. Identify society’s views of childhood through a historical perspective.
2. 2. Describe the philosophies of major historical figures in early childhood education,
   as well as discuss how these philosophies influence early childhood programs
   today.
3. 3. Discuss the needs of young children and outline appropriate practices for
   programming at each stage of development.
4. 4. Identify important elements of early childhood classroom practice and philosophy
   in school settings Pre-K through 3rd grade.
5. 5. Identify various types of child care programs including those targeted for special
   populations, and describe the components of each.
6. 6. Observe a variety of programs for young children and compare and contrast the
   components of these programs.
7. 7. List the characteristics of high quality early childhood programs.
8. 8. Explain the role parents play in programs for young children and list strategies for
   promoting parent involvement.
9. 9. Identify and discuss the contemporary issues currently affecting the lives and
   learning of young children.