Early Childhood Education

In this course, individuals will explore the developmental stages of children ages 0-5 and the key factors that play a major part in foundational growth and development. Over the course of four weeks, students will take part in multiple reflection activities and discussion posts to enhance learning and develop a greater understanding. Individuals will explore the theories of child development and the theorist who contributed to building what we’ve come to understand about the stages of development from birth to 5 years, the milestones children accomplish along the way, and the lifelong...

This course, Developmentally Appropriate Practices in Early Childhood, prepares individuals to best support students and families and create quality early learning environments in early childhood. Individuals will research and apply various concepts related to purposeful and intentional curriculum activities and learning centers within the early care and education environment. Individuals will explore the foundational necessities for providing developmentally appropriate practices within a classroom setting and gain knowledge of the value of play-based learning centers that engage,...

This course focuses on effective collaboration and communication skills for members of young learner’s support team. This team includes teacher and staff, significant family members, service providers, health practitioners, as well as community partners, agencies, and organizations. Examination of how successful student support teams can ensure an inclusive early childhood educational experience. Participants will gain knowledge about the various team member roles and how collaborative best practices are vital for positive student outcomes. Participants will also explore how the development...

This course prepares individuals to assess young children in diverse settings. Individuals are trained in the art and science of observation and appropriate and detailed documentation, in order to assess and evaluate the learning progress young children are making. Individuals are trained to make programmatic and curricular changes based on assessment information.  

In this course, individuals will become familiar with the Language and Literacy strands of Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing. The development of skills in each of these areas provides background for acquiring knowledge regarding the foundational skills of reading. The California Preschool Foundations Volume 1 chapter 4 (Language and Literacy) and chapter 5 (English Language Development) serves as the core reading for this course. In addition, the Alignment of the California Preschool Foundations with Common Core standards is used to show the relationship of the Transitional...

Utilizing the components of sociocultural-inclusive positive behavior support, this course provides knowledge and practice of evidence-based strategies that promote successful social interactions and classroom behavior for young learners with behavioral challenges. Topics include an overview of typical/atypical behaviors, creating a “safe space “classroom, informal behavioral assessments, and integrating social skills into the curriculum. Focus on practical application of positive behavior preventions and interventions in the classroom, reflection of best practices, and collaboration with...

This course covers ideology to design, equip, plan, and implement engaging learning environments for supporting developmental goals and knowledge. Learn about and observe optimal curricula and learning experiences based on theory, observation, and assessment within a context of relationships and play. Develop understanding for culturally relevant curricula. Students will also learn the importance of co-teaching and collaboration among peers as well as assessing teaching effectiveness and relationships. 

This course captures learning & field experiences from each of the prerequisite courses & connects them together in a cohesive manner. Candidates will collaborate with instructors from each course to determine which assignment best reflects their growth and learning during their professional development. Students will also develop a plan for further professional development and how to access resources for continued growth.