Lecture/Seminar: 3 hours/week (in person and/or online)
Practicum: 40 hours/week
Methods of instrudction for this course will include lectures, seminars, and practicum activities.
The following global ideas guide the design and delivery of this course:
- Learning from experience is a characteristic of exceptional early childhood educators. Learning in a practicum setting provides opportunities to examine assumptions, practice professional skills, and explore creative modes of inquiry that are not available in classroom settings.
- Early childhood educators work cooperatively with others (both children and adults) as listener, communicator, supporter, facilitator, guide and problem-solver. The development of effective skills for relating interpersonally is essential to becoming a reflective practitioner. With experience, the educator develops and demonstrates qualities of an effective leader.
- By observing and assessing children on a regular basis and relating the observations to developmental psychology theory, the early childhood educator is able to plan and implement an integrated program that is age-appropriate, culturally sensitive, and able to meet the individual needs and interests of each child in inclusive early childhood programs. Regular observation and documentation also provide information about each child’s development; information which can be shared with the family.
- The early childhood educator works collaboratively and/or takes responsibility for the design, implementation and evaluation of developmentally appropriate programs for groups of young children. The curriculum reflects a strong play-based philosophy, in which children’s play is supported and promoted through the early childhood educator’s role as facilitator and teacher. A project approach to curriculum that is based on the interests of the children and the knowledge/direction of the teacher ensures individual and group learning.
- The early childhood educator guides a child or group of children in a manner consistent with an understanding of individual needs and the context of the situation. The situation is assessed, and preventive measures used whenever possible. The goal is promotion of a strong sense of self esteem within each child which will act as a strong foundation for the development of autonomy. Ongoing analysis of children’s challenging behaviours with colleagues reflects good observation and problem-solving skills, flexibility, and use of creative, preventive guidance strategies.
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
Act and continue to develop professionally.
Demonstrate personal accountability, including:
- punctuality and regular attendance in the practicum/worksite setting
- appropriate grooming and dress
- sound judgement
- a sense of humour
- enthusiasm
- consistent effort throughout the day or shift
- ability to seek and accept feedback
Demonstrate professional competence, including:
- initiative
- ability to deal with time and stress-related pressures
- ability to adhere to ethics and confidentiality policies
- knowledge of the limits and expectations of the practicum student role
- manage conflicts appropriately
Communicate and collaborate with children, families, community and colleagues.
Demonstrate interpersonal effectiveness, including:
- the ability to display tact
- patience and flexibility in interactions with others
- effective listening
- clear communication
- appropriate language
- the ability to communicate across cultures
Communicate and collaborate with children, families, community and colleagues.
Demonstrate interpersonal effectiveness, including:
- the ability to establish positive and respectful relationships with children, families and colleagues
- the ability to contribute to a climate of open communication and cooperation
- the ability to communicate in writing
- emerging leadership skills
Observe, assess, plan for and monitor individual and group development of children in the context of developmentally appropriate practice.
Demonstrate the ability to foster children’s healthy development in the following areas:
- physical
- emotional
- social
- intellectual
- language
In collaboration with colleagues, demonstrate the ability to plan, initiate and document a preschool curriculum which responds to the children’s interests and ideas. The curriculum will include a variety of learning experiences in the following areas:
- literature
- creative art
- music and movement
- science and math
- social studies
Demonstrate the ability to successfully guide children’s learning and behaviour, using a range of positive and respectful child and group guidance techniques.
Ensure safety and monitor and promote health and nutrition.
Demonstrate the ability to take responsibility for children’s safety by anticipating possible problem situations.
Describe the centre’s health and safety policies and emergency procedures.
Demonstrate the ability to model and promote good health and hygiene practices.
Demonstrate the ability to meet the nutritional needs of children, while taking into consideration allergies and the child’s and family’s food preferences.
The course evaluation is consistent with the Douglas College Evaluation Policy. An evaluation schedule is presented at the beginning of the course.
This is a Mastery/Non-Mastery Course.
Typical means of evaluation may include a combination of:
- Practicum Journal
- Evaluation Booklet
- Curriculum Plans
- Pedagogical Narration
Consult the Douglas College Bookstore for the latest required texts or materials. A list of required materials is provided in the instructor’s course outline, which is available to students at the beginning of each semester.