Version: 3/20/2019 2
Additional Course Information
Topical Outline: Each offering of this course must include the following topics (be sure to include information regarding lab,
practicum, and clinical or other non-lecture instruction).
1. Discuss contributions of key historical and contemporary theorists to the field of early childhood education. Discuss
contributions of historical theorists to the field of early childhood education. Discuss contemporary theorists and their
contributions to the field of early childhood education.
2. Describe the features of a developmentally appropriate program for young children. Define the term
"developmentally appropriate practice. Discuss how knowledge of child growth and development impacts
developmentally appropriate practices. Describe developmentally appropriate practices as they apply to
infants/toddlers, preschoolers, school-age children (through grade 6), and children with special needs. Explain how
developmentally appropriate programs are impacted by difference in family structures and social and cultural
backgrounds. Explain how play is the foundation for children’s learning. Compare a developmentally appropriate
classroom with one that is not developmentally appropriate in relation to room arrangement, materials, and equipment.
3. Define Development and each of the basic developmental areas (physical, cognitive-language, social emotional).
4. Describe types of early childhood, elementary, and intermediate programs. Identify types and characteristics of
different programs for children (ages birth-grade 6). Contrast early childhood programs in terms of philosophy and
outcomes
5. Analyze current and future trends in the field of early childhood, elementary, and intermediate education. Identify
current legislation in the field of early childhood/special needs. Identify early childhood research findings and report on
them. Discuss public policy, how it is developed, and its impact on children and families. Describe inclusion and its
implications for the early childhood classroom. Explain the importance of early intervention programs.
6. Demonstrate an understanding of the characteristics and developmental stages of an early childhood professional.
List characteristics of an early childhood professional.
7. Discuss career opportunities for the early childhood professional List educational and experience requirements for
early childhood positions.
8.Describe the profession’s code of ethical conduct and its application in everyday practice.
9. Discuss the role of early childhood professional organizations in the development of an early childhood professional.
10. Describe the purpose of and opportunities for professional growth and development. Identify skills needed to locate
and obtain employment.
11. Describe advocacy as it relates to an early childhood professional.
12. Participate in a minimum of 16 hours of observation in programs for children ages birth-12 years, then summarize
and analyze the classrooms according to principles of developmentally appropriate practice.
National Association for the Education of Young Children Standards measured in this course:
1. Promoting child development and learning
2. Building family and community relationships
3. Observing, documenting, and assessing 4. Using developmentally appropriate approaches to connect with children
and families
5. Using content knowledge to build meaningful curriculum
6. Becoming a professional
Course Learning Outcomes:
Learning Outcomes – Upon successful completion of this course, students will:
1. Identify the features of a quality developmentally appropriate program for young children.
2. Explain contributions of historical and contemporary professionals and theorists to the field of early childhood
education.
3. Analyze various early childhood programs and curricular models that have influenced practice.
4. Describe current and future trends and issues in the field of education.