ECE 211 Methods for Preschoolers
(Contact Hours: 5) This course examines early childhood education with an emphasis on whole child development across key learning domains for preschool aged children. Students will investigate the role of the early childhood educator as co-learner, guide, and intentional planner through reflective practice and hands-on lesson design that fosters inquiry, discovery, and active engagement. Emphasis is placed on using observation and assessment tools to tailor instruction, deepen knowledge of inclusive practices such as IEP fundamentals, and evaluate learning environments using established quality standards like ECERS and CLASS. Additional topics include building partnerships with families, supporting transitions to future learning settings, and engaging in self-reflection to identify and address personal biases for equitable, responsive teaching. This course requires 30 hours of field experience in a licensed preschool setting at which students will design and implement developmentally appropriate, play-based lesson plans. PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of EDU 230 is REQUIRED.