Provides an overview of early childhood care and education, including the basic values, structure, organization and programming. Examination of the student's personal qualities in relationship to expectations of the field. Directed observation in a variety of programs and settings. Six (6) hours of observation required. (NOTE: The program's health requirements must be completed prior to observation.)

Provides a study of human development from conception through adolescence. Includes research methods and developmental theories. Addresses all major areas of development (physical, social, emotional and cognitive, language and aesthetic) and the interaction among these areas. Also examines current research and major developmental theoretical points of view, including those of Piaget, Erikson, Vygotsky, Skinner, Gardner and others. Explores child development in the context of gender, family, culture, socio-economics, race, ethnicity, religion and society. Emphasis is on the implication of early childhood professional practice. IAI ECE 912

Examines the theories and research (including early intervention) related to infants and toddlers with a focus on methods of care given in home-based and school-based infant programs. Five (5) hours of observation of infants/toddlers and related programs are required.

Provides an overview of principles involved in planning, implementing and evaluating developmentally appropriate curriculum. Includes lesson plans, emerging curriculum, scheduling, room arrangement, materials and equipment; individual, small and large group activities; short and long term goals; and teacher's roles and responsibilities in curriculum development. Three (3) hours of observation required. Prerequisite: Prior or concurrent enrollment in ECE 102 with a grade of C or better.

Provides guidelines and responsibilities in providing care in a Family Child Care setting for infants and young children. Ten (10) hours of observation in a family child care setting are required.

Studies selected problems or topics in early childhood. The exact content and instructional methodology will vary semester to semester depending on the material to be studied. This course may be repeated up to a maximum of three credit hours.

Provides an in-depth knowledge and understanding of language development, the stages involved, the role that adults play and the relationship of language to other aspects of development. Introduces the student to a wide variety of language activities appropriate for young children and develops skills in preparing, presenting and evaluating language activities. Prerequisite: ECE 115.

Examines the theoretical framework for art, creativity, music and movement. Acquaints the student with a variety of creative art materials and methods appropriate for use in programs for young children. Includes firsthand experience with materials and planning an arts program. Stresses the relationship of creative experiences within the curriculum and the role of creative experiences within the early childhood program. Prerequisite: ECE 115.

Introduces the theory and practice related to math and science for young children. Emphasis will be placed on the development and evaluation of developmentally appropriate activities and instructional materials. Prerequisite: ECE 115.

Understands concepts of appropriate assessment, expected educational outcomes, the teacher’s responsibility in assessment and how young children develop and learn. Students will understand how appropriate assessments can measure and evaluate child growth and development and how the use of assessment tools can influence decisions in early childhood education with an emphasis on appropriate guidance techniques and strategies. Four (4) hours of observation are required. Prerequisite: Prior or concurrent enrollment in ECE 102 with a grade of C or better.

Focuses on personal health of the individual, including nutrition and health and safety issues, with emphasis on meeting health needs for children in group settings. A healthy lifestyle, preventive health and community health are examined. One (1) hour of observation is required.

Concentrates on teacher's role in working with children within the context of family and community. Stresses effective communication, diversity, professionalism and social policy. Includes an in-depth study of community resources. Two (2) hours of observation are required. IAI ECE 915

Provides guidelines for the establishment and operation of a child development center. Emphasizes the director's role in programming, school policies, budgeting, record keeping, licensing, municipal codes, insurance, staff development, evaluation procedures, parent communication and community resources. Prerequisite: Completion of 15 credit hours including ECE 102 and ECE 115 with grades of C or better, or consent of program coordinator.

Explores personal experiences within the work environment, impact of sex-roles, organizational policies and professional standards. Emphasizes team building and the development of effective interpersonal communication skills.

Emphasizes the practical application of principles and theories in early childhood education within a supervised setting, while working with young children. The student will be supervised by a qualified professional for 60 documented hours at an approved site and attend weekly seminars. (NOTE: The program's health requirements, background check and CPR Basic Rescuer certification must be completed prior to placement in practicum.) Prerequisite: ECE 101, ECE 102, ECE 115, ECE 209, ECE 226 and ENG 101 with grades of C or better, or consent of instructor.

Emphasizes the practical application of early childhood education principles and theories in a supervisory capacity, while working with young children aged 0-3 years. The student will be supervised by a qualified professional for 60 documented hours at an approved site and attend a weekly seminar. (NOTE: The program's health requirements, background check and CPR Basic Rescuer certification must be completed prior to placement in practicum.) Prerequisite: ECE 111 and ECE 291 with grades of C or better and consent of instructor.

Emphasizes the practical application of early childhood education principles and theories in a supervisory capacity, while working with a director, staff, parents, and young children. The student will be supervised by a qualified director for 300 documented hours as mandated by the State of Illinois Director Credentials. Prerequisite: ECE 253, MGT 160 and MKT245 AND consent of coordinator.