The field of early childhood education
focuses on the educational and developmental needs of children from
birth through age eight. Individuals interested in working with young
children may benefit from the early childhood education courses offered
online through undergraduate degree and certificate programs.
Overview of Online Early Childhood Education (ECE) Courses
Training prepares teachers and care-giving professionals to create
quality educational atmospheres for young children. The liberal arts
curriculum covers English, social studies, humanities and math, in
addition to teaching techniques. Online courses, available online
through associate's and bachelor's degree and certificate programs,
cover the same material as if they were on-campus. Practice teaching
occurs in a classroom and cannot be completed online. Graduates should
be eligible for licensure. ECE practitioners typically work in daycare
centers, pre-schools and grade schools.
Course Requirements
Online class participation requires reliable computer access, an
Internet connection and e-mail account. Many programs also require the
use of software, such as Windows Media Player and Microsoft Word.
Students should be able to navigate the Internet and school websites for
assignment completion and research purposes. Class participation may
include file uploads and downloads, online group discussions and timed
online exams.
Early Childhood Education Introductory Course
This course provides an overview of pre-school and early primary
learning and covers concepts, methods and materials for developing
creative arts and manipulative play programs, age-appropriate language
and literacy. Students are introduced to the career options available as
ECE professionals and given opportunities to apply their skills in
local child care venues.
Early Childhood Language and Literacy Course
Students survey contemporary and traditional literature for children
in the form of poetry, fairy tales, picture books and non-fiction
designed for early readers. The class analyzes the developmental stages
of language and literacy. Basic college-level English courses may be a
prerequisite.
An exploratory course on the scientific research and concepts
surrounding human physical, psychological, social and cognitive
development from conception through the onset of puberty, this course
includes topics in in-utero influences, birth, language development and
early communication. Students examine the effect of various parenting
styles, attachment and child abuse on early development. An introductory
psychology course may be a prerequisite to enrolling in this class.
Special Needs Education Course
Students learn about the theories and methods for assisting children
with specific physical, learning and developmental challenges in a group
setting. The course identifies state mandates and federal regulations
regarding individuals with disabilities in education settings and
reviews the role of parents and other caregivers in planning special
needs curriculums. A prerequisite may be a course in child development.
Program Development Course
This course presents the techniques and resources used in developing
appropriate early education programs. Topics may include expressive
arts, such as music, dance, arts, crafts, storytelling, and science.
Students have opportunities for on-site observation and hands-on
practice at local child care sites.
Early Childhood Program Administration Course
Students study methods for developing and delivering educational
programs in early childhood education settings. Classes explore the
philosophies and common policies utilized in setting up successful
programs, including staffing, financial operations, equipment and
safety. Emphasis is placed on developmentally appropriate programs,
proper nutrition, assessment and reporting.
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