ECE 270 - Directed Practicum in Early Childhood Education

Number of Credits: 3
Participate in a 45-hour guided practicum in an approved early childhood setting. Directed practicum internships must be completed in an approved early childhood classroom. Practice teaching strategies, classroom management, and writing lesson plans. Debrief with peers in bi-weekly seminar. Students must be in good academic standing (2.0) GPA with the college. AAT ECE students must also attempt a basic skills test (Praxis CORE, ACT, or SAT) or have a 3.0 GPA prior to taking this course. (Fall & Spring Only) Three hours lecture each week. Three Credits. Three billable hours.

Pre-requisite(s): ECE 100, ECE 101, ECE 104, EDUC 230 , EDUC 231 with minimum grades of C or better and ENGL 101 plus exemption/completion of MAT 094 , MAT 015 , or MATH 113 . AAT.ECE students must also attempt a basic skills test (Praxis CORE, ACT or SAT) or have a 3.0 GPA prior to taking this course.
Course Topics:

Practicum Guidelines
Code of Conduct and Professionalism
Volunteer Training for CCPS
Journal Posting Guidelines
Intern Assignments
E-mail Mentor Teacher

Practicum Confirmation/Guidelines

Practicum Procedures/Contract

Common Problems of Student Teachers

Feelings, Stress and Anxiety
Time Management
Attachments
Philosophical Differences
Communication
Tips for Internships

Standards

Review of InTASC/NAEYC standards
Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs
Bloom’s Taxonomy (Watch Suzi Mazzenga Video)

Developing Teaching Styles

Review Philosophy Assignment
Examine Various Philosophies of Teaching

Classroom Management/Environmental Inventory Assignment (online)

Planning

Integrated Classroom
Emergent Curriculum
Common Core
Just in Time Teaching

Professional Commitment

Portfolios
Leadership Development

Understanding Behavior

How Do Children Learn?
Cultural Influences/Differences
Observing Children
Child Guidance/Discipline Techniques
Individualized Instruction

Talking to Children

Working with Children with Special Needs

Laws Relating to Educating Children
Working with Children with Special Needs
Adapting Lessons/Modifications

Technology

NAEYC Position Statement
Exchange Article on Technology

Professional Commitment and Employment

Resume Writing Skills
Schedule Meetings for Lesson Plans

Barb

Families (online reading)

Interacting with Families
Importance of the Home/School Partnership

Professional Concerns/Ethics

Code of Ethical Conduct
Accreditation/QRIS

Course Objectives: Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

Analyze observations of children, teachers, instruction and programs in an early childhood setting. (GE 2, 3 PG 1, 2, 3)
Explain the roles and responsibilities of the early childhood teacher. (GE 7 PG 1)
Discuss common management needs relative to the early childhood classroom. (GE 1, 2, 5 PG 1, 2, 3)
Identify a variety of instructional strategies that encourage the development of divergent and critical thinking, problem solving and performance skills of children at the early childhood level. (GE 1, 2 PG 1, 2, 3)
Discuss the practice of inclusion of students with special needs in the regular classroom. (GE 6 PG 1, 3)
Use constructive feedback to improve skills and develop appropriate professional behavior. (GE 3, 7 PG 2, 3)
Apply the NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct to ethical dilemmas in early childhood education. (GE 7 PG 1, 2, 3)
Translate observations in effective teaching and management practices. (GE 3, 5 PG 3)