Early Childhood Education

Students prepare to be primary providers of home, family, or institution-based child care services by focusing on the planning, organizing, and conducting of meaningful play and learning activities; child monitoring and supervision; record keeping; and referral procedures. Critical thinking, practical problem solving and entrepreneurship opportunities within the field of early childhood education are emphasized. Practical experiences (on-site preschool) under the supervision of the instructor is required. Students also prepare for continuing education leading to careers in early childhood fields (e.g., medical, social services, and education). Work-based learning methods of instruction are encouraged for this course.Students combine classroom instruction and supervised on-the-job training in an approved position with continuing supervision throughout the school year