Theories and research in child development and education are integrated with practical knowledge. Students examine forces that shape the future of early childhood education and the role teachers play in that future. This course is focused on programs developed for the early childhood and special education populations. Students examine philosophy, theoretical framework, curriculum, methodology, role of the teacher, role of the child, service delivery systems, and parent involvement. Students replicate portions of specific models as well as develop teaching strategies that would be characteristic of particular models.
Special attention is given to models for mainstreaming the special needs child.
Together, the student and faculty member decide on the content of the independent study and the criteria for evaluation. This course may be repeated for credit if the content differs. These courses have been approved for the M.A.T. degree with prior approval of the student's advisor. May be repeated for credit if content differs. This course is required for all M.A.T. degree-seeking students.