EDU Education Courses (EDU)

This introductory course provides a general introduction to the field of early childhood education as well as related services that support children and their families, birth to age 5. This course is intended for those who are interested in the field of early childhood as well as those who are still undecided but are considering a career working with young children. Content in this course provides an overview of the profession of early childhood education and the role of the teacher/caregiver. It explores the history of early childhood education, major models and programs that support and/or educate young children, the theories and practices that are the foundations for such programs, and current issues in the classroom/child setting. Thirty observation hours are required. CTAG CTECE001 effective Spring 2018. ITAG-ITECE001, effective spring 2023.

Studies theory and practice of instructional design and delivery for children birth to eight. Goal-setting, curriculum design, lesson planning and instructional methods based on NAEYC guidelines. Emphasis is placed on developmentally-appropriate, integrated and thematic instruction. Skill development is fostered in observing and recording behavior and evaluation/assessment of children's needs, levels and progress. Includes use of a wide range of educational media. Ten observation hours required.

In this course, students will examine and discuss content and issues related to the health, safety, and nutrition of young children birth through age 5. Students will explore information that relates to the development of safe learning environments, healthy nutrition, and other positive interactions that support optimal growth and development of young children. Ways to engage the family in supporting these practices as well as licensing rules and information about requirements will be included. Five observation hours are required. CTAG approved CTECE002 effective Spring 2018 ITAG-ITECE002, effective spring 2023.

This course engages participants in exploration and discussion about high-quality care giving and developmentally appropriate practices when engaging with infants and toddlers and their families. The importance of quality environments that support development, language and literacy, family engagement, advocacy, positive guidance, and professionalism are discussed as they relate to required standards and the care of infants and toddlers. Five observation hours are required. CTAG approved CTECE003 effective Spring 2018

Encompasses effectively identifying, locating, evaluating, designing, preparing and efficiently using educational technology as instructional resources in the classroom as related to principles of learning and teaching. Students will develop increased classroom communication abilities through lectures, discussions, modeling, laboratory experiences and completion of a comprehensive project

This introductory course explores the purposes, organizations, and outcomes of schooling from the perspectives of the field of social foundations in education. Candidates undertake critical inquiry into teaching as a profession. Licensure requirements, teachers’ legal responsibilities, and the accountability of public schools are also explored. TAG OED007 approved spring 2018, CTAG CTEDU007 approved spring 2018

This course focuses on applying knowledge of the characteristics and needs of young children, prenatal to age twelve, for the creation of healthy, respectful, supportive, challenging, and effective learning environments. Multiple and interrelated influences on the development and learning of young children will be examined. Historical and contemporary theories and research that support the importance of play, environments for learning, relationships, and the role of the teacher are presented. Ten observation hours are required. TAG approved OED010 effective Spring 2019

This course introduces the student to authentic and formal tools and strategies used in early childhood settings to appropriately assess, plan, and guide young children. Topics include methods of observation, recording growth, development and behavior, interpreting assessment data, influence of culture, and child guidance and group management with an emphasis on fostering self-discipline and pro-social skills. Ten observation hours are required. ITAG approved ITECE004, effecrive fall 2023

Examines research-based strategies and techniques for supporting and encouraging young children’s emerging literacy development, including pre-writing/writing, pre-reading/reading, and language development. Includes orientation to children’s literature and utilization of children’s interest in planning. Five field observation hours required.

This course explores educational considerations for teachers including the policies, theories, practices, skills, and knowledge of home, school, and community partnerships. Candidates will examine the multiple influences on the whole child; accessibility of community services and supports; ethical, practical, and culturally competent decisions to foster family engagement; knowledge and skills needed to address family structure, socio-cultural and linguistic backgrounds, identities and customs, and advocacy for children and families. Five volunteer/observation hours are required. TAG approved OED011 effective spring 2019

Examines key aspects of starting and operating various types of early childhood programs. Policies/procedures, legalities, supervision, finances, planning and organizing, and personnel management are emphasized.

This is a survey course to prepare all educators to teach diverse learners, including those with exceptionalities. It covers developmental characteristics, assessment methods, intervention strategies, and ethical principles for students in education and community settings. TAG OED009 approved Spring 2018

A 210-hour, supervised experience working in the early childhood education/caregiving setting. Open only to Early Childhood Education Technology majors. Weekly seminar participation required.

Explores the theory and role of phonics and phonemics awareness as well as current research regarding phonics instruction.

This course explores major theories of human development, learning, and motivation. Planning of instruction, teaching strategies, assessment, classroom management, and diversity of learners are examined. Authentic educational practices and application of research in these areas are also emphasized. TAG OED008 approved Spring 2018

This course focuses on current issues, research, and effective practices regarding the use of children’s literature across the early childhood classroom curriculum. Students will learn how to select quality children’s books for use in a variety of content areas, develop respect and appreciation for numerous types of literature, authors, illustrators, and poets. Students will plan lessons that use children’s literature to effectively support and enrich instruction in a variety of classroom settings. Five observation hours are required.

Definitions, causes, and characteristics of students identified with mild to moderate socio-emotional/behavioral and physical disabilities are studied. Social, educational, physical and emotional implications of learning and development are examined. Methods of assessment, interventions, and accommodations based on developmentally and individually appropriate procedures are presented. The range of service needs are explored using an interdisciplinary approach. Five field observation hours are required.