Early Childhood Education/Early Childhood Special Education, A.A.T.

This is a recommended program of study for students planning to pursue a bachelor's degree with the goal of teaching early childhood education (pre-K to grade 3) or Early Childhood Special Education (birth-grade 3).

Students learn about developmental and learning theories and how these impact diverse children, families, and classrooms. Students plan lessons with developmentally appropriate learning activities, suitable for a multicultural environment, as well as measure children's mastery of learning. Students also learn how to differentiate learning and learning strategies for a variety of students and settings. Finally, students learn the skills necessary to build positive relationships with parents, families, students, the community, and colleagues, as well as the use of effective communication strategies to enhance these relationships.

Students in this program are required to submit to a criminal background check in order to participate in the required fieldwork courses. More information about the procedure, cost, timeline, etc. can be obtained through the Education Department Advisor.

Participation in the required fieldwork courses is contingent upon the satisfactory completion of the criminal background check. If a student is denied a fieldwork placement (which is required to complete the program) due to a background check result, the student will meet with his or her advisor to discuss options, which could include dropping the course and changing program of study.

Students must earn a grade of C or higher in all courses in this program.

Graduation Information: 3.0 cumulative GPA, or 2.75-2.99 cumulative GPA and qualifying scores on the basic skills assessment for teacher licensure as established by the State Superintendent of Schools and as approved by the State Board of Education; and 45 hours of supervised field experience are required. Students may be required to take additional courses including special educations courses as part of the requirements for a bachelor's degree and teacher certification at four-year institutions.

Students must earn a grade of C or higher in all courses in this program.

Graduates of the Early Childhood Education/Early Childhood Special Education A.A.T. will be able to:

• Apply child development and learning theories when choosing developmentally appropriate practices and curriculum for specific and groups of children
• Differentiate lessons and activities for a variety of purposes and groups of children
• Discuss the skills needed to be an effective part of an educational team
• Discuss the skills necessary to communicate effectively with families and the community
• Plan, implement, assess, and evaluate student learning outcomes for a variety of purposes
• Apply multicultural principles and strategies to the planning, instruction, pedagogical, and assessment processes in a classroom