Early Childhood Education

• Hours: 42
• Credits: 3
• Pre-Requisites:
• CoRequisites:
• Estimated required text and/or learning resource costs: $121.40

Focusing on major theories of development and learning, this course presents the study of the preschool and school age child through a lens of holistic and interdependent development. The biologically determined characteristics and the influences of family, culture and society are explored and the ways in which they interact are examined. Students will continue to refine their observation skills to document their knowledge and understanding of development and strengthen their interpretations of children’s behaviours, strengths and abilities for the purpose of intentional and inclusive curriculum planning.

• Hours: 42
• Credits: 3
• Pre-Requisites: ECE1065
• CoRequisites:
• Estimated required text and/or learning resource costs: No cost.

Building on elements covered in Foundations of Curriculum, Play, and Pedagogy, this course will examine observed capabilities, interests, ideas, and experiences of children as essential components of a quality curriculum. By engaging in observation and reflective practice, students will design, implement, and document inclusive experiences and environments that are rooted in play and inquiry. Using current documents that inform the early learning profession, students will demonstrate the importance of responsive relationships in designing and applying professional practices that reflect inclusive and constructivist-inspired curriculum, play, and pedagogy.

• Hours: 42
• Credits: 3
• Pre-Requisites: ECE1020 OR ECE1025
• CoRequisites:
• Estimated required text and/or learning resource costs: No cost.

This course explores the partnership between early years' professionals and the families of children enrolled in early learning and care, education, and family-focused programs. Students will examine the structural, cultural, and developmental diversities of families in order to validate them as the primary support for children and their learning. Students will articulate the role of the educator in establishing and maintaining strong reciprocal relationships with families that are compatible with ethical and professional obligations. They will explore and practice engaging strategies that highlight the development of communication skills and emphasize collaboration with families. As future educators, students will engage in self-reflection to understand the significance of their role in working with families in early learning settings.

• Hours: 42
• Credits: 3
• Pre-Requisites:
• CoRequisites:
• Estimated required text and/or learning resource costs: No cost.

This field placement experience provides opportunity for students to integrate theory with practice as they develop their skills with children of all ages and families in early learning settings. Students will observe children's abilities, interests and ideas in order to examine, select and implement professional practice skills in the areas of human qualities, communication, professionalism, and curriculum. They will establish responsive relationships with children, families and colleagues through program participation. In addition, they will demonstrate the principles of early learning pedagogy as they design, implement and reflect upon inclusive, play-based early learning curriculum with individual children and groups of children.

• Hours: 182
• Credits: 6
• Pre-Requisites: FPLT1380 OR FPLT1385
• CoRequisites:
• Estimated required text and/or learning resource costs: No cost.