Analyzes the interaction of culture and education, develops from a historical perspective the evolution of modern education and examines contemporary issues and problems in American education. Presents elementary reading programs and the various causes of reading disabilities. An introduction to methods and materials of teaching reading, formal and informal tests, scoring and interpreting data, reading laboratory materials, phonics, vocabulary and comprehension problems and individualized reading programs.
Students also investigate how young children learn their own language.
An essential course component is the role of the aide in the reading environment. Acquaints students with the many fundamental concepts related to the teaching and learning process and the methods and activities that motivate learning. Traditional and innovative instructional procedures are demonstrated and analyzed. The physical and mental health needs of young children, as well as curriculum, equipment and learning procedures appropriate for early school years are considered. Studies of current trends and issues in early childhood education are considered, with emphasis on established and innovative programs in the field.