18 Semester Credit Hours; Curriculum: 0068
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Courses for a Certificate | ||
| ECE 102 | Child Growth and Development | 3 |
| ECE 104 | Introduction to Early Childhood Education | 3 |
| ECE 107 | Observation and Assessment of the Young Child | 3 |
| ECE 108 | Nutrition, Health and Safety for the Young Child | 3 |
| ECE 180 | The Exceptional Child | 3 |
| ECE 270 | Child, Family, and Community Relations | 3 |
| Total Hours | 18 | |
Completion of this certificate can lead to obtaining the Illinois Gateways to Opportunity Early Care and Education Credential Level 2. Contact the Early Childhood Education chair for details.
Program Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate fundamental knowledge of all developmental areas in childhood, from birth through 8 years, including cognitive, physical, language, social, and emotional development from both a neurotypical and special needs perspective.
- Articulate orally and in writing developmental theory and Early Childhood Education curriculum.
- Explain the main forms of early care and education that make up the Early Childhood Education profession.
- Explain the basic principles of developmentally appropriate practice in teaching, planning, observation, and assessment.
- Plan for healthy and safe environments which set the stage for development and learning.
- Articulate orally and in writing the professional role of the teaching team and director and how they relate to families and the community served by Early Childhood Education programs.
- Students who successfully complete the Basic Early Childhood Education Certificate, and document all required observation hours and practical experiences, will be eligible to apply for the Illinois Gateways to Opportunity Early Care and Education Credential, Level 2.
Basic Early Childhood Education Certificate Pathway
The following Pathway is recommended for students pursuing the Basic Early Childhood Education Certificate.
| First Year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall Semester | Hours | |
| ECE 102 | Child Growth and Development | 3 |
| ECE 104 | Introduction to Early Childhood Education | 3 |
| ECE 108 | Nutrition, Health and Safety for the Young Child | 3 |
| Hours | 9 | |
| Spring Semester | ||
| ECE 107 | Observation and Assessment of the Young Child | 3 |
| ECE 180 | The Exceptional Child | 3 |
| ECE 270 | Child, Family, and Community Relations | 3 |
| Hours | 9 | |
| Total Hours | 18 | |
Note: Pathway is a recommended sequence of courses. Full-time students should contact the department chair to discuss a full-time pathway as well as course prerequisites and recommendations.