ECE 230 Found of Early Child Educ

The historical, philosophical and sociological foundations of early childhood education will be addressed in this course. Students will focus on all areas of diversity, including children with disabilities, as part of an understanding that the child can be best understood within the context of his/her family, culture, and society. Students will study family-systems theory to understand the dynamics, roles, and relationships between home, school and community. Development of appropriate learning environments will be addressed. Anti-bias curricula will be explored within the context of the development of appropriate learning environments. Strategies for developing continuity between the home, the school, and the community will be explored in depth. Partnerships, collaborations, and support and referral services will also be explored, as well as the role of trans-disciplinary teams in providing services to students with disabilities. Models of communication between home and school will be examined. Incorporation of parents in assessment and planning, as well as in support services, will be covered.A 5-hour field experience will be required. Students must obtain fingerprint clearance prior to beginning field experiences. Spring