Early Childhood Education, AS-T

The Associate in Science for Transfer degree in Early Childhood Education prepares students to work with children from infancy through middle childhood, to teach in child care and development programs, to participate in the broader society as child advocates, and to transfer into the California State University. The Early Childhood Education program educates and trains students in developmentally appropriate practice guided by principles established by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. Through a broad range of theoretical perspectives, students examine child growth and development, gain experience in observation and use of appropriate guidance techniques, learn to plan and implement curriculum, and demonstrate knowledge of state licensing regulations for child care and development programs. Program curriculum is aligned with the Child Development Permit Program Matrix and with the Curriculum Alignment Project.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate understanding of early childhood principles and practices required for employment including maintaining health and safety standards, creating appropriate early learning environments, complying with state licensing regulations and guiding childrens’ behavior with respectful and supportive method.
2. Utilize various observational techniques to assess childrens’ learning and development and use the results to plan developmentally, culturally and linguistically appropriate curriculum.
3. Describe and distinguish major theories of child development to support in planning appropriate early experiences for children.