Early Childhood Education (B.S.)

Student Learning Outcomes for Early Childhood Education:

Students will be able to:

• Plan, design, and implement research-based instructional and assessment practices appropriate for children between preschool and fourth grade.

• Develop and apply instructional methodologies, including the use of technology, appropriate for children between preschool and fourth grade.

• Critically apply content knowledge and skills to facilitate student learning appropriate for children between 0 and 9 years.

• Create, organize, and maintain an effective and safe classroom environment conducive to learning and development.

• Design and implement successful interventions responsive to the needs of learners in PreK through grade four.

• Exhibit the qualities that characterize a professional individual, including professional, ethical, and legal responsibilities of a certified teacher.

• Demonstrate an ongoing commitment to continued professional development and service.

Candidates for certification in Early Childhood Education must complete a major that consists of two key elements. The first element emphasizes critical concepts and ideas important to one’s general education and academic preparation for teaching. The second emphasis stresses a professional core organized in five areas: 1) Early Childhood Development, Cognition and Learning, 2) Subject Matter Pedagogy Content (Pre-kindergarten through Fourth), 3) Assessment, 4) Family and Community Partnerships, and 5) Professionalism. Content requirements are based on national standards for early childhood education as well as Pennsylvania’s curriculum standards. Candidates will have 190 hours of field experiences prior to beginning student teaching. Candidates have the option of completing a concentration in Special Education that leads to special education certification Pre-kindergarten through eighth grade. Candidates who choose this option will receive dual teaching certifications in both Early Childhood and Special Education.