Academics

Excellent, affordable degree programs from a dedicated faculty.

Early Childhood & Teacher Education

Early Childhood & Teacher Education

EDU 171 Introduction to Early Childhood Education FA 3 s.h.

This course presents information and theory regarding developmentally appropriate practice for children from birth to eight years. It emphasizes developing the student’s understanding of the importance of creating an effective learning environment, advancing physical and intellectual competence, supporting social and emotional development, establishing relationships with families and maintaining a commitment to professionalism. Attention is given to skills needed in a variety of program settings, including Head Start, child care, pre-kindergarten, nursery schools and first through third grades. Hours of class per week: 3.

EDU 175 Foundations of Education 3 s.h.

A study of the historical, philosophical, political, legal, sociological, and ethical bases of (N-12) education in the United States. The course also examines the role of the educator, public and private educational institutions, cultural diversity, and contemporary educational issues. Hours of class per week: 3.

EDU 180 Safety, Health & Nutrition in Early Childhood 3 s.h.

The course addresses basic issues of safety, health, and nutrition in early childhood. It covers such topics as maintaining a safe and healthy environment, appropriate immunizations, recognizing signs of illness and controlling communicable diseases in early childhood settings. The course includes documenting and reporting child abuse and maltreatment, and it stresses policy development that supports safe and healthy practice in early childhood programs. In addition, the course addresses factors that help promote and maintain the health and well-being of the individual who works with young children. Hours of class per week: 3.

EDU 185 Early Childhood Curriculum 3 s.h.

This course is designed to develop and foster a creative and holistic approach to teaching young children in early childhood settings. Using literature, music and movement, science, art, block, and cooking activities, the student explores the potential of varied teaching/learning techniques for supporting a child’s total development. Students work in teams to develop lesson plans and conduct learning activities. Prerequisite: EDU 171. Hours of class per week: 3.

EDU 201 Introduction to Teaching 1 s.h.

This course will include the following topics: professionalism, observation techniques, behavior management, time management, placement preparation, code of ethics, portfolio preparation and career exploration. It is anticipated that students will achieve the Child Abuse Recognition and Reporting certification requirement, while in this class.  Prerequisites: EDU 171 or EDU 175, PSY 210, or PSY 220, PSY 101 (may be taken concurrently). Hours of class per week: 1.

EDU 225 Arts & Crafts for Early Childhood Education 3 s.h.

This course presents materials and techniques for promoting creative artistic development in young children. It explores a variety of art activities. Students gain hands-on experience in the artistic media and the use of art materials. Activities relate to the principles of child development, enhance creativity, and support all areas of the curriculum.  Prerequisites: EDU 171, or permission of Instructor. Hours of class per week: 3.

EDU 250 Music for Early Childhood Education 3 s.h.

This course addresses the musical disposition of young children and presents developmentally appropriate instructional techniques for supporting them. It emphasizes helping children develop listening, singing, and beat competency by providing planned and spontaneous musical experiences. The course also covers musical concepts such as melody, rhythm, and form, along with movement activities. Prerequisites: EDU 171, or permission of Instructor. Hours of class per week: 3.

EDU 280 Introduction to Young Children with Special Needs SP 3 s.h.

An introductory course designed to meet the needs of pre-professionals and professionals who work with special needs children in the early childhood field. The course presents a practical approach to the identification of special-needs children, strategies and practices to facilitate inclusion in formal and informal settings, and a review of  the resources available to professionals and parents. Prerequisites: None (PSY 210 recommended). Hours of class per week: 3.

EDU 293 Introduction Preschool Programs, Start Up and Management    3 s.h.

A course designed for students who are interested in early childhood program management. Topics covered include business styles and relationships, personnel and staff development, marketing, licensing and registration processes, finances, budgeting, space and equipment, safety, children’s programs, and the CACFP food management in early childhood settings. Hours of class per week: 3. Prerequisites: Successful completion of EDU 171, EDU 180, EDU 185. Completion of EDU 298 recommended.

EDU 298-EDU 299 Early Childhood Practicum FA-SP 4 s.h.

The Early Childhood practicum is designed to provide work and learning experience in the field of early childhood education. Individual field experience is developed with community agencies and institutions. Practicum students also spend one hour per week in a seminar session, where they reflect on their field experiences and integrate the insights they have achieved in their fieldwork. Prerequisites: EDU 171, EDU 185, and permission of Instructor or Academic Dean. Hours of class per week: 1. (Plus additional hours to be arranged.) Course enrollment restricted to Early Childhood Education Majors.