ECE 216 - Curriculum Development and Observation

5.0 Credits
Obtain theoretical and practical understanding of planning curriculum for young children. Students learn to create a program based on knowledge of children’s development and interests that is guided by observation. S/U grade option.

Course Objectives
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

Document knowledge and skills to plan a curriculum, and classroom program that is based upon professionally defined standards, research, and theories. [REASON]
Document how the role of observation is a primary method for understanding the development of children and a core resource for planning experiences, the environment, a meaningful classroom program. [REASON]
Demonstrate the ability to design a curriculum based on active learning and the importance of play. [COMMUNICATE]
Provide evidence of increased understanding the teacher’s role as a reflective practitioner with application in understanding development, observation and planning. [ACT]
Provide evidence of understanding the importance of social relationships to the teaching and learning process. [EXPLORE]
Demonstrate the knowledge and skills to plan a classroom environment, learning centers and curriculum from a developmental and child-centered approach that will reflect children’s interests, current capabilities, emerging abilities, families and cultures. [COMMUNICATE]
Provide evidence of an increased awareness of how the role of child development specialist supports curriculum development, teaching strategies, individualization and inclusion of differing abilities and cultures in the classroom. [REASON]