The fifteen-credit pathway in Early Childhood Education is designed for those in fields
such as early childhood education, childcare, child development and human services
who want to pursue or maintain initial employment in early childhood settings. All
courses are required in the Childhood Education AS Degree Program (Utica University
Transfer).
Social & Philosophical Foundations of Education ED1503 cr.
This course provides a study of the philosophical, historical,
sociological, ethical, and political bases of the N-12 American
educational system. It includes a comprehensive introduction to the
issues, laws, policies, and practices affecting the education system,
teaching, learning, and assessment. It explains ways that teachers
and schools can work with students and families to provide a
meaningful and equitable education. Topics include diversity in student
populations, school funding, high-stakes testing, school desegregation
and re-segregation, technology, standardized tests, and learning
standards. The history of the American educational system is discussed
in relation to current issues and topics in education, teaching, and
learning. A 15-hour observation in a general education classroom must
be completed.
Child DevelopmentED2053 cr.
This course examines children’s physical, social, emotional, language,
and cognitive development from pre-natal to age twelve. Topics include
childhood development theories and research, the recognition and
understanding of significant child behaviors, the role of parenting and
culture, the role of the teacher, influence of peers, and play. Students
must complete a 15-hour child observation in a daycare setting,
observing both infants/toddlers and preschool children.
Early Childhood Methods & MaterialsED2033 cr.
TThis course aids in understanding and providing for the needs and
education of young children in care/educational settings. Methods and
materials used to plan, implement, and assess integrated learning
experiences that consider the inter-relatedness of physical, social/
emotional, and cognitive development are explored. The importance of
planning experiences for young children to develop intellectual curiosity
and demonstrate a respect for diversity of backgrounds is emphasized.
This course includes a minimum of eight hours of observation in
a preschool classroom. Prerequisites: ED150 Social & Philosophical
Foundations of Education and ED205 Child Development. Prerequisites
must be met with a minimum grade of "C".
Introduction to ExceptionalitiesED2113 cr.
This course introduces early childhood curriculum development
including planning, implementing, and assessment based on the New
York State Learning Standards. It covers developmentally appropriate
practice, methods, and materials for preschool through primary grade
children. Emphasis is placed on curriculum that meets the needs of
the whole child: cognitive, social, emotional, language, and physical.
Knowledge is gained of early childhood curriculum that is respectful
to the backgrounds of all children and families. Early childhood
best practices are learned, grounded in early childhood educational
theories, including Vygotsky and Plaget, and using play as the vehicle
for planning, implementation, learning, assessment, and emphasizing
Constructivist practice. Best practice techniques, including lesson plan
and thematic unit planning, are demonstrated. This course includes
a minimum of eight hours of observation in a preschool classroom.
Prerequisites: ED150 Social & Philosophical Foundations of Education
and ED205 Child Development. Prerequisites must be met with a
minimum grade of "C".
