The focus of this course is on the development and implementation of developmentally appropriate activities. Students will learn how to set learning objectives and design and evaluate activities and lessons.

This course focuses on the development of strategies, based on theories of play, to enhance the value of constructive and positive play in the childcare environment. The module also explores the different developmental play experience stages.

Diverse lifestyles, multi-cultural experiences, and varied social settings are explored through the construct of imaginative play environments. Assignments include the development of play prop boxes that can be used to encourage creative and dramatic play with children.

Students will be introduced to the value of music, dance, drama and visual art activities which help develop the child’s ability to express himself or herself in a nonverbal way. Aesthetic growth is accomplished by having the child participate directly in a wide variety of quality experiences through sounds, instruments, and art and body movement. Students will explore ways of enhancing these forms of expression in children.

The principles of emergent and integrated curriculum will be enhanced as students explore how science, technology, and math concepts can be incorporated throughout the programming cycle of the day. Using the principles of STEM, students will learn how to build a responsive environment that incorporates authentic observation and inquiry through holistic based play experiences. Students will develop core philosophies that are founded in the Alberta Curriculum Framework that supports children as the constructor of their knowledge. Pedagogical documentation that honours the child’s interest and self-expression will also be explored.

Students will deepen their understanding of how to nurture creative expression in young children by exploring the Arts in a variety of areas in the planning cycle. Storytelling, Drama, Art, Design and Music will be the focus of an expanding foundation that will guide the student on how to support children in self-expression and creativity.

This course will build on previous coursework from the certificate program that supports students understanding in how emergent curriculum can be developed by examining patterns of play and children’s interest. Students will be guided through a planning cycle to understand how the voice of the child is an integral part of curriculum and how collaboration between the child, the educator and the community can create an enriched and holistic program. A more in-depth look at integrated programming will also be covered as students incorporate the principles of literacy, numeracy and societal awareness into their programming. The educator as a scribe and documenter will be explored as further learning on the importance of pedagogical documentation will be discussed. In addition, students will learn how families, the environment, reflective practice and authentic assessment are vital components to an effective and well-developed curriculum.

In this course, students will learn the importance of active play in early learning settings. Physical literacy, mental and physical well-being, and a healthy lifestyle will be a primary focus as students learn how to program for play that is high energy and promotes big body movements. Students will also learn how to adapt programming for the Canadian climate to ensure that outdoor play is considered through-out the year.

This course will develop practitioner skills necessary to provide a positive, safe, and nurturing environment. Strategies for guidance, discipline, and conflict will be examined through inclass work and observation assignments. Problem-solving strategies and child-centered approach to classroom management will be explored.

This course will introduce students to positive communication skills, verbal and non-verbal, in an ever-changing diverse and multicultural environment. Communication, conflict resolution, and issue understanding are key elements explored in this module.

This course will focus on an examination of contemporary issues in the field of early learning. Students will be exposed to emerging issues and possibilities to expand their knowledge on pedagogy and practice. Historical context of both Canadian and Albertan Early Learning practices will create a foundation for an expanded understanding of today’s issues. Special attention to advocacy will be covered as students learn how to effectively develop an informed opinion on the future of Early Learning and the challenges facing the Early Childhood Educator today. Students will also explore ethical practices in early learning as they explore the code of conduct that guides the ELCC professional.

Students will learn the theories behind working in professional groups and how to effectively participate in a variety of collaborative teams. Effective communication skills, self-evaluation and professional responsibilities will also be discussed. Students will learn how to incorporate successful problem-solving strategies and perspective-taking when working with adults and develop techniques that support inclusiveness and diversity in sensitive conversations with families and within collaborative teams.

During this course, students will explore family dynamics within Canadian communities, focusing on their similarities and cultural and economic differences. Students will examine the factors that affect Canadian families and will explore the diversity of each family unit. Recognizing the signs of abuse and neglect and how to ensure that proper procedure is followed if abuse and neglect is suspected will also be covered. Students will begin to understand the important role that family, communities and support networks play in early childhood education.

The overall objective of this course is to strengthen reading, writing, and speaking skills at the post-secondary level in order to further enhance adult student performance at school and in the work place. Students will write essays, build on their strengths in public speaking, and report on assigned readings.

Students will learn the role of out-of-school workers and how they can assist in creating safe and stimulating learning environments.

This course is a broad-based introduction to using a personal computer. It teaches the fundamentals of an operating system and the most popular application software. Students will also learn about the Internet, Web browsers, electronic mail, and antivirus software.

Basic centre administration will be covered including budgeting, scheduling, centre structure and organization. Students will also be advised on job finding resources and on interview skills and techniques.

Students will be introduced to expectations, policies, and procedures of field placement.

Students will undergo field work experience in which they plan and deliver childcare. Students will have numerous opportunities to complete prepared activity plans, observe children at play, observe and evaluate typical and challenging behaviours. There will be supervision by a certified Early Childhood Educator. During this competency based practicum, students will also be observed and evaluated by an ELCC Faculty member from the College.

Students will be introduced to expectations, policies, and procedures of the advanced field placement.

Students will continue with an additional 380 hours of field placement to add to the work experience in which they continue to plan and deliver childcare. Students will have numerous opportunities to complete prepared activity plans, observe children at play, observe and evaluate typical and challenging behaviours.  There will be supervision by a certified Early Childhood Educator.  During this competency-based practicum, students will also be observed and evaluated by an ELCC Faculty member from the College.