ECE Early Childhood Education

ECE 591 Advanced Topics in Child Development, Learning, and Developmentally Appropriate Practices

jonstad — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 18:24:29 +0000

ECE 591 Advanced Topics in Child Development, Learning, and Developmentally Appropriate Practices jonstad Thu, 04/23/2026 - 11:24

This course examines current issues, trends, theories, and research related to child development and developmentally appropriate practices in the early childhood classroom. Students generate ethical solutions to relevant issues in the field of early childhood education and social justice. Further, students will examine how various leadership models foster professional knowledge and skills within their chosen field of study. Using this information, students design a classroom environment that incorporates evidence-based and developmentally appropriate strategies that promote optimal learning and development in young children. Equivalent to ECE 624. Prerequisite: ECE 590 or EDU 594

3 ECE Early Childhood Education

ECE 590 Leadership, Innovation, and Social Justice in Early Childhood Education

jonstad — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 18:23:35 +0000

ECE 590 Leadership, Innovation, and Social Justice in Early Childhood Education jonstad Thu, 04/23/2026 - 11:23

Students in this course will be introduced to the professional knowledge, skills, dispositions, and standards expected of early childhood education professionals and innovative leaders in the field. Further, this course will introduce several programmatic themes—social justice, 21st century teaching and learning, and leadership—to inspire students to be active early childhood advocates for children. Students will also gain insights and understanding related to the academic, personal, and professional expectations of graduate students to support their success in their program and in their profession. Equivalent to ECE 600

3 ECE Early Childhood Education

ECE 440 Virtual Early Childhood Experience

dwaddell — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 22:51:57 +0000

ECE 440 Virtual Early Childhood Experience dwaddell Fri, 10/24/2025 - 15:51

This course provides students with an immersive opportunity to connect theory to practice in early childhood education. A key component of the course is the inclusion of virtual experiences that allow students to observe and practice with professionals and families in supporting children with diverse needs. Through guided observations and reflective practice, students will explore the principles of creating inclusive, responsive, and supportive learning environments that nurture each child’s development. The course emphasizes the importance of collaboration, ethical decision-making, and cultural responsiveness in fostering meaningful relationships with children, families, and colleagues. Students will also gain insight into the professional roles and responsibilities within the field, preparing them to navigate diverse educational settings.

3 ECE Early Childhood Education

ECE 323 Collaborating with Families and Communities

dwaddell — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 22:50:54 +0000

ECE 323 Collaborating with Families and Communities dwaddell Fri, 10/24/2025 - 15:50

In this course, students will explore how strong, positive partnerships with families and communities can enrich early childhood education and child development. Emphasis is placed on understanding child development within the broader contexts of family, culture, language, and society. Learners will design inclusive strategies that reflect and celebrate the strengths and values of diverse families and discover ways to connect with resources to enhance learning and foster meaningful community ties. Through collaborative planning, students will apply assessment tools and data-informed practices to support young children’s growth across all learning domains. The course also challenges students to reflect on their role as compassionate educators and advocates, capable of nurturing trusting relationships and leading positive change in the field.

3 ECE Early Childhood Education

ECE 350 Cognitive Development of Infants through Adolescents