Cognitive and Reflective Dimension Thoughtful planning and decision making are fundamental aspects of the Early Childhood program. An emphasis on active learning and how to implement it in developmentally appropriate ways is woven throughout the program. Reflection and critical thinking is fostered through assignments such as simulations, case studies, action research, and building portfolios and rubrics. In every course of the Early Childhood program, students translate theory into practice. The Huggins Early Education Center on campus is used for an observation, field placement, and research site.
Action research is translated into innovative curriculum.
All candidates participate in oral presentations which prepare them to become leaders in the field by sharing their knowledge with other educators. Graduate students frequently make joint presentations with faculty at professional conferences. Diversity Dimension Diversity is apparent both in the students who participate in the Early Childhood Program and in the field settings chosen and the focus of the coursework. Fostering collaboration and reflection among early childhood leaders and preparing candidates to celebrate diversity and foster ethnic pride in young children is a major component in all the courses offered in this option. Classes foster an understanding of cross-cultural perspective and typically comprise candidates who are representative of the diverse multicultural populations of the region.