ECE 101 - Early Childhood Education

This is an archived copy of the 2020-2021 catalog. To access the most recent version of the catalog, please visit https://catalog.nmc.edu.

Course Description

This course familiarizes students with the history and present state of early childhood education, from birth to 10 years of age. Each age group (infant/toddler, preschooler and school-age) receives a minimum of 10 classroom hours of focused study related to the course content. An overview of child development theories is presented in the context of the role of the educator/caregiver. Resources and careers, and contemporary issues such as school readiness and exploration of various education philosophies are also included. Early Education environment observations and a personal philosophy of education project are required. The observations are set by students to meet their schedules. Group 2 course.

Credit Hours

3

Contact Hours

3

Lecture Hours

3

Course Learning Outcomes

Knowledge:
  • Identify the historical and philosophical foundations of early childhood education.
  • Describe the basic principles of learning relating to child development theories for all age groups.
Application:
  • Evaluate current early childhood learning environments (all age groups) through observational contexts.
  • Design a "best practice" classroom environment.
Integration:
  • Compare and contrast educational experiences to current trends in early childhood education.
Human Dimension:
  • Create a philosophy of early education statement identifying their own professional values and teaching style.
Caring - Civic Learning:
  • Actively advocate for the wellbeing of children and families in their community.
Learning How to Learn:
  • Analyze their own thinking and learning styles.
  • Reflect upon their learner and "teacher" skills.