Unit goal

To Understand the basic principles of Developmentally Appropriate Practice (DAP), the major curricular guidelines for early childhood education, and to explore the implications of becoming a reflective practitioner in early childhood education.

(For EDHD 312: Professional Development Seminar in Early Childhood Education)

Grade Level (K-16): Preservice Teachers (Junior/Senior Undergraduates in Early Childhood Education)

General Subject Area(s):

Early Childhood Education; Child Development; Teacher Education.

Minimum time required for the unit:

5 weeks

Concepts learned across all unit modules:

1. Principles of Developmentally Appropriate Practice, the National Standards for Early Childhood Education.
2. Children are active learners.
3. Developmentally appropriate practices are based on principles of general development, individual development, cultural and familial contexts.
4. principles of self regulation and management are based on an understanding of children's development and the goal of internal regulation and motivation.
5. parents are partners in children's development and learning.

Standards addressed by unit modules:

Standards are drawn from the following sources:

1. NCATE standards (NAEYC Professional Preparation Guidelines);
2. Praxis II: Early Childhood Education;
3. National Educational Technology Standards.
   See each module for specific standards addressed.
   

Technology needed in unit modules:

Computer software, Web access for exploring web-based resources, creating own homepages, accessing computer-based course instruction, and participating in simulations and web-based discussion.
Technology-enhanced instructional strategies employed.

Technology-enhanced instructional strategies employed :

Technology-enriched problem-based learning (see assignments below, including discussions on Blackboard, development of classroom design schemes, classroom equipment/supply proposals; research via web resources); computer-based simulations (simulations via ICONS website); teleresearch; creation of TeacherWeb homepages; use of graphics programs to create classroom design schemes and parent newsletters.

Title of Each Module:

• Module#1- Introduction to Web-based Learning Opportunities in Early Childhood Education
• Module#2- Principles of Developmentally Appropriate Practice
• Module#3- Designing a DAP Rich Classroom Environment
• Module#4- Promoting Children's Self-Regulation Through Classroom Guidance
• Module#5- Parents as Partners in the Early Childhood Classroom
  

Unit Culminating Activity:

Students will complete two activities: 1) a homepage on TeacherWeb which contains examples of their work from modules 3, 4 &5; 2) A final (take-home) examination which involves a simulation of a school/parent activity which enables them to present their knowledge of DAP principles in a meaningful format and context for parents and colleagues.

Unit Authors:

Elisa Klein
Jennifer McDonald
Sherry Mirshahi

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