B.S. in Child Development

Walden University offers students a dynamic learning environment and a range of support services to ensure academic success. In this course, students immerse themselves in Walden University's online learning environment and apply skills from the student readiness orientation. In addition, students discover and apply the tools and services that will support them throughout their degree program. Through classroom discussions and the application of key communication principles, students establish an online community of peers and explore their degree program with discipline-specific examples. This course helps students prepare for their Walden academic career and continues their orientation to the university.

This course is an overview of the field of early care and education. Education professionals engage in assignments that emphasize the elements of high-quality programs, governing standards and regulations, and historical perspectives. They engage in peer discussions on a range of topics, such as the nature of infant care and education, learning through play, quality education and teaching, the definition of education, and current issues affecting education. Education professionals gain further insight into the profession of teaching and working with children through interviews with teachers of various age groups. Additionally, education professionals explore career options and consider what it means to be a professional in the field of early care and education.

Current perspectives on education and methods of teaching are rooted in history and philosophy as far back as the ancient Greeks. In this course, education professionals explore thinkers, philosophies, and educational programs that have influenced current ideas about effective practices in teaching, including tapping into different forms of intelligence and applying new methods for assessment. Education professionals critically examine educational philosophies and methods in light of current social, political, and economic forces impacting children, families, and the field. Through coursework and discussions, education professionals begin to develop a reasoned, coherent personal philosophy of education as a basis for ethical and professional practice and decision making.

In this course, education professionals explore the early childhood field and related themes, issues, and controversies. Education professionals make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, challenges, and possibilities within the field of early care and education. They investigate professional organizations and research information on early childhood career opportunities. They also reflect on prior knowledge as well as knowledge gained throughout the course in regard to what it means to be a professional in the field of early education.  

How might social class, ethnicity, and gender impact children’s learning? Education professionals in this course have the opportunity to answer such questions through the exploration of psychological concepts and theories as they relate to the field of early care and education. Education professionals examine behavioral, cognitive, social, and constructivist views of learning. They engage in conceptual and applied assignments that emphasize research-based principles as well as implications of these principles on child development, learning, teaching, and assessment. Moreover, they share perspectives and delve deeper into content through weekly discussions on a variety of topics, such as helping children develop and learn, defining intelligence, fostering resilience, analyzing learning experiences, and using motivation theories and principles.

This course provides education professionals with an overview of physical, cognitive/language, and social and emotional development in children from birth through adolescence. Education professionals explore prevailing philosophies and theories of child development and form their own child development philosophy. Through an exploration across various developmental domains and stages, education professionals investigate the latest research and thinking in regard to conditions that affect children’s learning and development, such as risk factors, developmental variations, temperament, rate of maturation, innate abilities, culture, family, community, and societal influences.

Education professionals in this course focus on the themes, issues, and controversies related to child development. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, challenges, and possibilities related to the developing child. Education professionals research and analyze information on brain development, which they use to develop a presentation that could be used to inform stakeholders, such as parents and colleagues. Through this and other assignments designed to provide practical application of content, they summarize their understanding of the developing child, including areas in which they hope to learn more.

Growth and development in young children are influenced by many factors, including nutrition, safety, and health. Education professionals in this course learn about these factors and examine the professional’s role in supporting children’s healthy development within the context of early childhood care and education as well as in family and community settings. They also assess and discuss the prevention of health problems common to young children, methods of promoting wellness and fitness, child safety, emergency preparedness and procedures, and child mental health.

Complex events, such as divorce, child abuse and neglect, and illness and death of family members, are common occurrences in today’s society. This course provides a survey of the ways in which professionals and families work together in supporting child and family resiliency within the context of these complex issues. Education professionals explore formal and informal communication strategies; family participation in group settings; family education; advocacy for families; and the impact of family, culture, and community on children’s development and learning within early childhood programs. Through this course, education professionals have the opportunity to gain the communication and conflict-management skills needed to prepare for future professional challenges in the field of education.

Children’s overall well-being is related not only to their health and safety but also to quality relationships among early childhood professionals, family, and community members. In this course, education professionals examine themes, issues, and challenges related to the fostering of children’s overall well-being. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, developments, and possibilities related to healthy growth and development within early childhood, family, and community settings. Additionally, education professionals assess and discuss resources in the area of early childhood education to further their professional development.

This course focuses on the theories of language acquisition and language development of young children from infancy through preschool. Education professionals explore how children acquire and develop language, and they gain an understanding of emergent reading and writing. They engage in coursework that emphasizes bilingualism, atypical speech and language development, and the impact of culture and environment on language. Additionally, education professionals make connections between course concepts and share ideas and perspectives though weekly discussions on a range of topics, such as language and the brain, adult roles in language development, early literacy, and challenges for second-language learners, among others.

Children’s literature can delight and inspire young readers as well as promote respect for diversity. In this survey course, education professionals focus on the power and quality of children’s literature from birth through adolescence. Education professionals explore a wide variety of genres and learn the characteristics of high-quality literature. They gain practical experience critically evaluating and selecting books from various genres for specific age groups. They also learn about prominent authors, illustrators, and book awards.

Education professionals in this course explore the themes, issues, and developments in the foundations of literacy. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, challenges, and possibilities within the fields of language development and children’s literature. Demonstrating knowledge of key concepts and theories, education professionals engage in written assignments designed to provide practical application of course content on a variety of topics, such as the benefits and impact of literacy, how literacy serves as a tool of social equity, and strategies to support family literacy and literacy programs.

In this course, education professionals explore developmentally appropriate formal and informal assessments, including observational techniques for assessing young children’s development and learning. Education professionals learn how to use specific tools and the data generated from them to inform effective decision making and instructional planning. They also consider and discuss ethical and legal considerations as well as other related issues and controversies. Applying course concepts, education professionals participate in an integrative child observation project through which they gain a deeper understanding of the process of assessment, the role of observation, and the importance of considering children as individuals.

Educators understand that all individuals are unique with varying abilities and needs. This course provides education professionals with an overview of exceptionalities in children from birth through adolescence. They engage in coursework that highlights early identification, referral, intervention, inclusion, and the related psychosocial needs of children and their families. They discuss complexities related to labeling children, inclusion, and challenging myths and stereotypes. In addition, education professionals explore federal and state legislation that guides educational requirements.

In this course, education professionals address themes, issues, and controversies related to the special needs and individuality of children. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, challenges, and possibilities associated with understanding and meeting the needs of individual children and their families. Through written assignments designed to provide practical application of content, education professionals analyze topical sources focused on disability culture and autism and then make connections, describe how their thinking has changed as a result of their analysis, and summarize new perspectives.

This course emphasizes the importance of being responsive to the languages and cultures of individual children and their families and communities to effectively support learning and development. Education professionals broaden their understanding of culture as a framework that includes not only language and ethnicity but also gender, socioeconomic status, exceptionalities, family configuration, sexual orientation, personal interests, and many other aspects of one’s individuality. In addition, education professionals reflect on their own cultural frameworks and examine personal attitudes and beliefs.

Education professionals in this course examine themes, issues, and challenges specific to living in a diverse society. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research and controversies; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends and possibilities related to the areas of social responsibility and cultural and linguistic diversity. They delve deeper into content and share ideas and perspectives through discussions on a range of topics, such as methods to strengthen communities and strategies and challenges of international adoption.

This course provides education professionals the opportunity to integrate theories of child development, principles of effective early childhood practice, and methods of working with young children and their families. Education professionals engage in projects that demonstrate synthesis and application of this knowledge. Through these projects, they consider the knowledge and skills gained throughout the program and how they can apply them to future work in the early childhood/child development field. They also have the opportunity to research a position in early education, interview a professional in the field, develop a resume and cover letter, and reflect on professional competencies and areas for professional growth.

This course provides education professionals with the opportunity to integrate knowledge of child development; principles and methods of working with school-age children and adolescents; and current research, issues, and trends that affect this age group. They create an integrative project that demonstrates synthesis and application of this knowledge. They consider professional goals while reflecting on research, issues, and trends explored throughout the program. Education professionals research a variety of positions in the field based on interests gained from learning experiences, and they develop a resume and cover letter to distinguish themselves competitively. Additionally, they complete a professional development plan through which they set goals and consider areas for further professional development.

Walden University offers students a dynamic learning environment and a range of support services to ensure academic success. In this course, students immerse themselves in Walden University's online learning environment and apply skills from the student readiness orientation. In addition, students discover and apply the tools and services that will support them throughout their degree program. Through classroom discussions and the application of key communication principles, students establish an online community of peers and explore their degree program with discipline-specific examples. This course helps students prepare for their Walden academic career and continues their orientation to the university.

This course is an overview of the field of early care and education. Education professionals engage in assignments that emphasize the elements of high-quality programs, governing standards and regulations, and historical perspectives. They engage in peer discussions on a range of topics, such as the nature of infant care and education, learning through play, quality education and teaching, the definition of education, and current issues affecting education. Education professionals gain further insight into the profession of teaching and working with children through interviews with teachers of various age groups. Additionally, education professionals explore career options and consider what it means to be a professional in the field of early care and education.

Current perspectives on education and methods of teaching are rooted in history and philosophy as far back as the ancient Greeks. In this course, education professionals explore thinkers, philosophies, and educational programs that have influenced current ideas about effective practices in teaching, including tapping into different forms of intelligence and applying new methods for assessment. Education professionals critically examine educational philosophies and methods in light of current social, political, and economic forces impacting children, families, and the field. Through coursework and discussions, education professionals begin to develop a reasoned, coherent personal philosophy of education as a basis for ethical and professional practice and decision making.

In this course, education professionals explore the early childhood field and related themes, issues, and controversies. Education professionals make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, challenges, and possibilities within the field of early care and education. They investigate professional organizations and research information on early childhood career opportunities. They also reflect on prior knowledge as well as knowledge gained throughout the course in regard to what it means to be a professional in the field of early education.  

How might social class, ethnicity, and gender impact children’s learning? Education professionals in this course have the opportunity to answer such questions through the exploration of psychological concepts and theories as they relate to the field of early care and education. Education professionals examine behavioral, cognitive, social, and constructivist views of learning. They engage in conceptual and applied assignments that emphasize research-based principles as well as implications of these principles on child development, learning, teaching, and assessment. Moreover, they share perspectives and delve deeper into content through weekly discussions on a variety of topics, such as helping children develop and learn, defining intelligence, fostering resilience, analyzing learning experiences, and using motivation theories and principles.

This course provides education professionals with an overview of physical, cognitive/language, and social and emotional development in children from birth through adolescence. Education professionals explore prevailing philosophies and theories of child development and form their own child development philosophy. Through an exploration across various developmental domains and stages, education professionals investigate the latest research and thinking in regard to conditions that affect children’s learning and development, such as risk factors, developmental variations, temperament, rate of maturation, innate abilities, culture, family, community, and societal influences.

Education professionals in this course focus on the themes, issues, and controversies related to child development. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, challenges, and possibilities related to the developing child. Education professionals research and analyze information on brain development, which they use to develop a presentation that could be used to inform stakeholders, such as parents and colleagues. Through this and other assignments designed to provide practical application of content, they summarize their understanding of the developing child, including areas in which they hope to learn more.

Growth and development in young children are influenced by many factors, including nutrition, safety, and health. Education professionals in this course learn about these factors and examine the professional’s role in supporting children’s healthy development within the context of early childhood care and education as well as in family and community settings. They also assess and discuss the prevention of health problems common to young children, methods of promoting wellness and fitness, child safety, emergency preparedness and procedures, and child mental health.

Complex events, such as divorce, child abuse and neglect, and illness and death of family members, are common occurrences in today’s society. This course provides a survey of the ways in which professionals and families work together in supporting child and family resiliency within the context of these complex issues. Education professionals explore formal and informal communication strategies; family participation in group settings; family education; advocacy for families; and the impact of family, culture, and community on children’s development and learning within early childhood programs. Through this course, education professionals have the opportunity to gain the communication and conflict-management skills needed to prepare for future professional challenges in the field of education.

Children’s overall well-being is related not only to their health and safety but also to quality relationships among early childhood professionals, family, and community members. In this course, education professionals examine themes, issues, and challenges related to the fostering of children’s overall well-being. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, developments, and possibilities related to healthy growth and development within early childhood, family, and community settings. Additionally, education professionals assess and discuss resources in the area of early childhood education to further their professional development.

This course focuses on the theories of language acquisition and language development of young children from infancy through preschool. Education professionals explore how children acquire and develop language, and they gain an understanding of emergent reading and writing. They engage in coursework that emphasizes bilingualism, atypical speech and language development, and the impact of culture and environment on language. Additionally, education professionals make connections between course concepts and share ideas and perspectives though weekly discussions on a range of topics, such as language and the brain, adult roles in language development, early literacy, and challenges for second-language learners, among others.

Children’s literature can delight and inspire young readers as well as promote respect for diversity. In this survey course, education professionals focus on the power and quality of children’s literature from birth through adolescence. Education professionals explore a wide variety of genres and learn the characteristics of high-quality literature. They gain practical experience critically evaluating and selecting books from various genres for specific age groups. They also learn about prominent authors, illustrators, and book awards.

Education professionals in this course explore the themes, issues, and developments in the foundations of literacy. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, challenges, and possibilities within the fields of language development and children’s literature. Demonstrating knowledge of key concepts and theories, education professionals engage in written assignments designed to provide practical application of course content on a variety of topics, such as the benefits and impact of literacy, how literacy serves as a tool of social equity, and strategies to support family literacy and literacy programs.

In this course, education professionals explore developmentally appropriate formal and informal assessments, including observational techniques for assessing young children’s development and learning. Education professionals learn how to use specific tools and the data generated from them to inform effective decision making and instructional planning. They also consider and discuss ethical and legal considerations as well as other related issues and controversies. Applying course concepts, education professionals participate in an integrative child observation project through which they gain a deeper understanding of the process of assessment, the role of observation, and the importance of considering children as individuals.

Educators understand that all individuals are unique with varying abilities and needs. This course provides education professionals with an overview of exceptionalities in children from birth through adolescence. They engage in coursework that highlights early identification, referral, intervention, inclusion, and the related psychosocial needs of children and their families. They discuss complexities related to labeling children, inclusion, and challenging myths and stereotypes. In addition, education professionals explore federal and state legislation that guides educational requirements.

In this course, education professionals address themes, issues, and controversies related to the special needs and individuality of children. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, challenges, and possibilities associated with understanding and meeting the needs of individual children and their families. Through written assignments designed to provide practical application of content, education professionals analyze topical sources focused on disability culture and autism and then make connections, describe how their thinking has changed as a result of their analysis, and summarize new perspectives.

This course emphasizes the importance of being responsive to the languages and cultures of individual children and their families and communities to effectively support learning and development. Education professionals broaden their understanding of culture as a framework that includes not only language and ethnicity but also gender, socioeconomic status, exceptionalities, family configuration, sexual orientation, personal interests, and many other aspects of one’s individuality. In addition, education professionals reflect on their own cultural frameworks and examine personal attitudes and beliefs.

Education professionals in this course examine themes, issues, and challenges specific to living in a diverse society. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research and controversies; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends and possibilities related to the areas of social responsibility and cultural and linguistic diversity. They delve deeper into content and share ideas and perspectives through discussions on a range of topics, such as methods to strengthen communities and strategies and challenges of international adoption.

The role and functions of managers, specifically principles and procedures for planning, organizing, leading, and controlling organizations, are addressed in this introductory course. Emphasized is the practical application of theory to reality. This course is structured so that students have the opportunity to see the interrelationships among the functions, components, and disciplines that comprise the field of management and thereby gain a comprehensive perspective as a foundation for the further study of management. (Prerequisites: COMM 1001.)

The landscape of early care and education is constantly changing. Education professionals in this course examine these changes, focusing on the roles and responsibilities of the early childhood teaching professional in infant/toddler and preschool settings. Education professionals explore the complexities of developmentally appropriate practice and learn what it means to be an advocate for children, their families, and the profession itself. They engage in discussions and assignments that emphasize the importance of keeping up with current research in the field and engaging in professional activities and organizations to ensure continual professional growth and learning.

Managing child development centers in the 21st century requires a complex array of leadership skills and dispositions. In this course, education professionals explore the various types, purposes, and theoretical foundations of child development programs, and they examine the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) core competencies for directors. They engage in discussions and assignments that emphasize the leader’s role in managing the organization as a whole, including overseeing regulatory and business concerns, establishing policies and procedures, and implementing the organization’s mission and vision.

Students in this course examine how corporations succeed and grow by embracing a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship within the organization. Students learn current models for corporate entrepreneurship and innovation that align with the strategic objectives of the enterprise. Students also examine the design of repeatable and sustainable processes that leverage existing business practices and support entrepreneurial initiatives. (Prerequisites: BUSI 1002.)

This course provides students with a comprehensive overview of human resource management. Students discuss the role of human resources managers as strategic partners who focus on the mission and goals of an organization. Students examine traditional topics, such as job analysis and design, recruitment, selection, performance appraisal, training, staffing, career management, compensation, benefits, health and safety, and employee relations. They also evaluate technology-based resources that aid contemporary HR processes and responsibilities. Through case studies and practical exercises, students work toward gaining the skills that enable them to develop important employment policies and procedures, such as those addressing ethical and equal opportunity issues in regard to legal and environmental regulations. (Prerequisites: BUSI 1002.)

A child development center is a business like any other; it must be operated and staffed with precision. This course prepares child development center directors and managers for the financial and human relations aspects of the job. Topics covered include constructing and managing a budget, maintaining accurate financial reports, fundraising, staffing, personnel management, and professional development.

The focus of this course is on evaluating business concepts and business plans for small businesses so that students can develop strategies for successfully launching and operating a small business. Students examine the small business life cycle and explore resources available to small business owners. Real-world case studies expose students to the challenges of running a small business venture. Topics covered include startup business ideas, financing the small business, legal and liability issues, employment decisions, ethical and moral considerations, and expansion opportunities for small businesses. (Prerequisites: BUSI 3004 or 3008.)

This course addresses the unique aspects of marketing a small business. Students examine market definition, product development, and diversification strategies designed to help small business owners expand their business reach. Students learn effective ways small businesses can leverage technology such as e-commerce, social media, and other online marketing methods. (Prerequisites: BUSI 3008.)

Operating a child development center requires the wearing of multiple hats. This course focuses on the day-to-day operational duties managers and directors must perform in order to keep the facility running safely and smoothly. Topics include marketing and public relations; facilities management to ensure proper health, nutrition, and safety conditions; and family communication and support. Legal and ethical issues in working with children and families are also explored.

This course provides education professionals the opportunity to integrate theories of child development, principles of effective early childhood practice, and methods of working with young children and their families. Education professionals engage in projects that demonstrate synthesis and application of this knowledge. Through these projects, they consider the knowledge and skills gained throughout the program and how they can apply them to future work in the early childhood/child development field. They also have the opportunity to research a position in early education, interview a professional in the field, develop a resume and cover letter, and reflect on professional competencies and areas for professional growth.

This course provides education professionals with the opportunity to integrate knowledge of child development; principles and methods of working with school-age children and adolescents; and current research, issues, and trends that affect this age group. They create an integrative project that demonstrates synthesis and application of this knowledge. They consider professional goals while reflecting on research, issues, and trends explored throughout the program. Education professionals research a variety of positions in the field based on interests gained from learning experiences, and they develop a resume and cover letter to distinguish themselves competitively. Additionally, they complete a professional development plan through which they set goals and consider areas for further professional development.

Walden University offers students a dynamic learning environment and a range of support services to ensure academic success. In this course, students immerse themselves in Walden University's online learning environment and apply skills from the student readiness orientation. In addition, students discover and apply the tools and services that will support them throughout their degree program. Through classroom discussions and the application of key communication principles, students establish an online community of peers and explore their degree program with discipline-specific examples. This course helps students prepare for their Walden academic career and continues their orientation to the university.

This course is an overview of the field of early care and education. Education professionals engage in assignments that emphasize the elements of high-quality programs, governing standards and regulations, and historical perspectives. They engage in peer discussions on a range of topics, such as the nature of infant care and education, learning through play, quality education and teaching, the definition of education, and current issues affecting education. Education professionals gain further insight into the profession of teaching and working with children through interviews with teachers of various age groups. Additionally, education professionals explore career options and consider what it means to be a professional in the field of early care and education.

Current perspectives on education and methods of teaching are rooted in history and philosophy as far back as the ancient Greeks. In this course, education professionals explore thinkers, philosophies, and educational programs that have influenced current ideas about effective practices in teaching, including tapping into different forms of intelligence and applying new methods for assessment. Education professionals critically examine educational philosophies and methods in light of current social, political, and economic forces impacting children, families, and the field. Through coursework and discussions, education professionals begin to develop a reasoned, coherent personal philosophy of education as a basis for ethical and professional practice and decision making.

In this course, education professionals explore the early childhood field and related themes, issues, and controversies. Education professionals make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, challenges, and possibilities within the field of early care and education. They investigate professional organizations and research information on early childhood career opportunities. They also reflect on prior knowledge as well as knowledge gained throughout the course in regard to what it means to be a professional in the field of early education.  

How might social class, ethnicity, and gender impact children’s learning? Education professionals in this course have the opportunity to answer such questions through the exploration of psychological concepts and theories as they relate to the field of early care and education. Education professionals examine behavioral, cognitive, social, and constructivist views of learning. They engage in conceptual and applied assignments that emphasize research-based principles as well as implications of these principles on child development, learning, teaching, and assessment. Moreover, they share perspectives and delve deeper into content through weekly discussions on a variety of topics, such as helping children develop and learn, defining intelligence, fostering resilience, analyzing learning experiences, and using motivation theories and principles.

This course provides education professionals with an overview of physical, cognitive/language, and social and emotional development in children from birth through adolescence. Education professionals explore prevailing philosophies and theories of child development and form their own child development philosophy. Through an exploration across various developmental domains and stages, education professionals investigate the latest research and thinking in regard to conditions that affect children’s learning and development, such as risk factors, developmental variations, temperament, rate of maturation, innate abilities, culture, family, community, and societal influences.

Education professionals in this course focus on the themes, issues, and controversies related to child development. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, challenges, and possibilities related to the developing child. Education professionals research and analyze information on brain development, which they use to develop a presentation that could be used to inform stakeholders, such as parents and colleagues. Through this and other assignments designed to provide practical application of content, they summarize their understanding of the developing child, including areas in which they hope to learn more.

Growth and development in young children are influenced by many factors, including nutrition, safety, and health. Education professionals in this course learn about these factors and examine the professional’s role in supporting children’s healthy development within the context of early childhood care and education as well as in family and community settings. They also assess and discuss the prevention of health problems common to young children, methods of promoting wellness and fitness, child safety, emergency preparedness and procedures, and child mental health.

Complex events, such as divorce, child abuse and neglect, and illness and death of family members, are common occurrences in today’s society. This course provides a survey of the ways in which professionals and families work together in supporting child and family resiliency within the context of these complex issues. Education professionals explore formal and informal communication strategies; family participation in group settings; family education; advocacy for families; and the impact of family, culture, and community on children’s development and learning within early childhood programs. Through this course, education professionals have the opportunity to gain the communication and conflict-management skills needed to prepare for future professional challenges in the field of education.

Children’s overall well-being is related not only to their health and safety but also to quality relationships among early childhood professionals, family, and community members. In this course, education professionals examine themes, issues, and challenges related to the fostering of children’s overall well-being. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, developments, and possibilities related to healthy growth and development within early childhood, family, and community settings. Additionally, education professionals assess and discuss resources in the area of early childhood education to further their professional development.

This course focuses on the theories of language acquisition and language development of young children from infancy through preschool. Education professionals explore how children acquire and develop language, and they gain an understanding of emergent reading and writing. They engage in coursework that emphasizes bilingualism, atypical speech and language development, and the impact of culture and environment on language. Additionally, education professionals make connections between course concepts and share ideas and perspectives though weekly discussions on a range of topics, such as language and the brain, adult roles in language development, early literacy, and challenges for second-language learners, among others.

Children’s literature can delight and inspire young readers as well as promote respect for diversity. In this survey course, education professionals focus on the power and quality of children’s literature from birth through adolescence. Education professionals explore a wide variety of genres and learn the characteristics of high-quality literature. They gain practical experience critically evaluating and selecting books from various genres for specific age groups. They also learn about prominent authors, illustrators, and book awards.

Education professionals in this course explore the themes, issues, and developments in the foundations of literacy. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, challenges, and possibilities within the fields of language development and children’s literature. Demonstrating knowledge of key concepts and theories, education professionals engage in written assignments designed to provide practical application of course content on a variety of topics, such as the benefits and impact of literacy, how literacy serves as a tool of social equity, and strategies to support family literacy and literacy programs.

In this course, education professionals explore developmentally appropriate formal and informal assessments, including observational techniques for assessing young children’s development and learning. Education professionals learn how to use specific tools and the data generated from them to inform effective decision making and instructional planning. They also consider and discuss ethical and legal considerations as well as other related issues and controversies. Applying course concepts, education professionals participate in an integrative child observation project through which they gain a deeper understanding of the process of assessment, the role of observation, and the importance of considering children as individuals.

Educators understand that all individuals are unique with varying abilities and needs. This course provides education professionals with an overview of exceptionalities in children from birth through adolescence. They engage in coursework that highlights early identification, referral, intervention, inclusion, and the related psychosocial needs of children and their families. They discuss complexities related to labeling children, inclusion, and challenging myths and stereotypes. In addition, education professionals explore federal and state legislation that guides educational requirements.

In this course, education professionals address themes, issues, and controversies related to the special needs and individuality of children. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, challenges, and possibilities associated with understanding and meeting the needs of individual children and their families. Through written assignments designed to provide practical application of content, education professionals analyze topical sources focused on disability culture and autism and then make connections, describe how their thinking has changed as a result of their analysis, and summarize new perspectives.

This course emphasizes the importance of being responsive to the languages and cultures of individual children and their families and communities to effectively support learning and development. Education professionals broaden their understanding of culture as a framework that includes not only language and ethnicity but also gender, socioeconomic status, exceptionalities, family configuration, sexual orientation, personal interests, and many other aspects of one’s individuality. In addition, education professionals reflect on their own cultural frameworks and examine personal attitudes and beliefs.

Education professionals in this course examine themes, issues, and challenges specific to living in a diverse society. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research and controversies; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends and possibilities related to the areas of social responsibility and cultural and linguistic diversity. They delve deeper into content and share ideas and perspectives through discussions on a range of topics, such as methods to strengthen communities and strategies and challenges of international adoption.

Education professionals in this course gain a fundamental understanding of how school-age children and adolescents develop and learn. They examine typical and atypical cognitive, physical, and social-emotional development as well as the relationship among these developmental domains. They also compare theories of development; develop a presentation that identifies and explains specific strategies, methods, or activities for the promotion of health and well-being in middle childhood; engage in a field study to gain real-world insight on the affective and social development of children between the ages of 6 and 12; and complete an integrative research paper on critical, topical issues related to school-age and adolescent development.

In today’s multicultural society, educators must be cognizant of the ways in which they teach culturally diverse values and social attitudes to school-age children and adolescents. Education professionals in this course examine these values and attitudes as well as ways to transmit such concepts in the classroom. They explore topics of ethnicity, language, gender, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status. They also examine how each of these areas of diversity affects school-age children and adolescents as well as how they relate to stereotyping and bias.  

This course provides education professionals with an overview of the practices and professions in the field of school-age and adolescent development, including such topics as careers; interpersonal and professional skills; and ethical/legal guidelines needed for working with school-age children and adolescents, families, and other professionals. Education professionals explore a variety of organizations that are devoted to fostering the healthy development of school-age children and adolescents. They also have the opportunity to investigate a profession of their choice to learn the responsibilities and tasks it entails. Additionally, education professionals describe what they perceive to be the professional relationship between ethical and legal obligations as well as the significance of law and ethics in the field of school-age and adolescent development.

Educators have a responsibility to guide and motivate as well as to foster self-esteem and resilience in school-age children and adolescents. Education professionals in this course address a continuum of effective strategies needed for working with school-age children and adolescents in group and classroom settings. Such strategies include effective communication, positive guidance, modeling/mentoring, intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, fostering self-esteem, promoting resilience, and problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills. They learn to apply theory to practice as they critically analyze several theoretical constructs and consider their implications for working with school-age children and adolescents in group and/or classroom settings.

Education professionals in this course explore the spheres of influence on school-age children and adolescents and the techniques needed to facilitate positive relationships among homes, schools, and communities to foster healthy development and learning. They explore and discuss the definition of home, school, and community; research on the benefits of partnerships; home visits and shared decision making; expectations and accountability; volunteer screening; and examples of successful educational partnerships. Applying course concepts, education professionals engage in an integrative project through which they develop a handbook of best practices for forming home, school, and community partnerships, including challenges, strategies, and potential legal and ethical issues.

Often times, the setting in which learning occurs is equally important as the material taught and method of teaching. In this course, education professionals examine effective learning environments for school-age children and adolescents. They make connections between key topics and their personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world settings; and future trends, challenges, and possibilities related to the healthy development and learning of school-age children and adolescents. Demonstrating knowledge and applying concepts, education professionals consider and describe how their definition of an effective learning environment has changed as a result of their learning. They also gain real-world insight into how to design effective learning environments by interviewing a professional in the field.

By understanding the relationship between children’s health, culture, and socioeconomic status, in addition to related trends and issues, professionals who work with school-age children are in a better position to address and respond to these issues and related challenges effectively. Education professionals in this course critically examine selected issues and trends related to school-age children, such as technology/media, bullying, gender, abuse prevention, drugs/alcohol, obesity/eating disorders, stress, peer relationships, and school success. They demonstrate their understanding of course concepts through various applications, including the creation of an informative brochure for the purpose of explaining topical issues on health and wellness to parents and other stakeholders.  

Physical changes and social pressures make adolescence a challenging time for many teens; therefore, it is important for professionals to be aware of current trends and critical issues that affect the mental and physical well-being of this age group. Education professionals in this course examine and discuss selected issues and trends related to adolescents, such as technology/media, cyber-bullying, gender, sexual orientation, drugs/alcohol, obesity/eating disorders, depression, self-injury, suicide, teenage pregnancy, and school success. Applying course concepts, education professionals engage in practical exercises, such as research analyses through which they explore the connections between topical issues and the larger world as they affect adolescents and their transition into adulthood.

In this course, education professionals explore the role of the professional as advocate, interventionist, family liaison, and public policymaker. They make connections between key topics and their personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world settings; and future trends, challenges, and possibilities related to the development of the whole child. They engage in various discussions and activities related to the responsibilities of educators, such as the development of action plans detailing how they would organize and participate in interventions in response to specific situations. Education professionals also consider how they might engage in advocacy as part of their current or future profession.

This course provides education professionals with the opportunity to integrate knowledge of child development; principles and methods of working with school-age children and adolescents; and current research, issues, and trends that affect this age group. They create an integrative project that demonstrates synthesis and application of this knowledge. They consider professional goals while reflecting on research, issues, and trends explored throughout the program. Education professionals research a variety of positions in the field based on interests gained from learning experiences, and they develop a resume and cover letter to distinguish themselves competitively. Additionally, they complete a professional development plan through which they set goals and consider areas for further professional development.

Walden University offers students a dynamic learning environment and a range of support services to ensure academic success. In this course, students immerse themselves in Walden University's online learning environment and apply skills from the student readiness orientation. In addition, students discover and apply the tools and services that will support them throughout their degree program. Through classroom discussions and the application of key communication principles, students establish an online community of peers and explore their degree program with discipline-specific examples. This course helps students prepare for their Walden academic career and continues their orientation to the university.

This course is an overview of the field of early care and education. Education professionals engage in assignments that emphasize the elements of high-quality programs, governing standards and regulations, and historical perspectives. They engage in peer discussions on a range of topics, such as the nature of infant care and education, learning through play, quality education and teaching, the definition of education, and current issues affecting education. Education professionals gain further insight into the profession of teaching and working with children through interviews with teachers of various age groups. Additionally, education professionals explore career options and consider what it means to be a professional in the field of early care and education.

Current perspectives on education and methods of teaching are rooted in history and philosophy as far back as the ancient Greeks. In this course, education professionals explore thinkers, philosophies, and educational programs that have influenced current ideas about effective practices in teaching, including tapping into different forms of intelligence and applying new methods for assessment. Education professionals critically examine educational philosophies and methods in light of current social, political, and economic forces impacting children, families, and the field. Through coursework and discussions, education professionals begin to develop a reasoned, coherent personal philosophy of education as a basis for ethical and professional practice and decision making.

In this course, education professionals explore the early childhood field and related themes, issues, and controversies. Education professionals make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, challenges, and possibilities within the field of early care and education. They investigate professional organizations and research information on early childhood career opportunities. They also reflect on prior knowledge as well as knowledge gained throughout the course in regard to what it means to be a professional in the field of early education.  

How might social class, ethnicity, and gender impact children’s learning? Education professionals in this course have the opportunity to answer such questions through the exploration of psychological concepts and theories as they relate to the field of early care and education. Education professionals examine behavioral, cognitive, social, and constructivist views of learning. They engage in conceptual and applied assignments that emphasize research-based principles as well as implications of these principles on child development, learning, teaching, and assessment. Moreover, they share perspectives and delve deeper into content through weekly discussions on a variety of topics, such as helping children develop and learn, defining intelligence, fostering resilience, analyzing learning experiences, and using motivation theories and principles.

This course provides education professionals with an overview of physical, cognitive/language, and social and emotional development in children from birth through adolescence. Education professionals explore prevailing philosophies and theories of child development and form their own child development philosophy. Through an exploration across various developmental domains and stages, education professionals investigate the latest research and thinking in regard to conditions that affect children’s learning and development, such as risk factors, developmental variations, temperament, rate of maturation, innate abilities, culture, family, community, and societal influences.

Education professionals in this course focus on the themes, issues, and controversies related to child development. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, challenges, and possibilities related to the developing child. Education professionals research and analyze information on brain development, which they use to develop a presentation that could be used to inform stakeholders, such as parents and colleagues. Through this and other assignments designed to provide practical application of content, they summarize their understanding of the developing child, including areas in which they hope to learn more.

Growth and development in young children are influenced by many factors, including nutrition, safety, and health. Education professionals in this course learn about these factors and examine the professional’s role in supporting children’s healthy development within the context of early childhood care and education as well as in family and community settings. They also assess and discuss the prevention of health problems common to young children, methods of promoting wellness and fitness, child safety, emergency preparedness and procedures, and child mental health.

Complex events, such as divorce, child abuse and neglect, and illness and death of family members, are common occurrences in today’s society. This course provides a survey of the ways in which professionals and families work together in supporting child and family resiliency within the context of these complex issues. Education professionals explore formal and informal communication strategies; family participation in group settings; family education; advocacy for families; and the impact of family, culture, and community on children’s development and learning within early childhood programs. Through this course, education professionals have the opportunity to gain the communication and conflict-management skills needed to prepare for future professional challenges in the field of education.

Children’s overall well-being is related not only to their health and safety but also to quality relationships among early childhood professionals, family, and community members. In this course, education professionals examine themes, issues, and challenges related to the fostering of children’s overall well-being. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, developments, and possibilities related to healthy growth and development within early childhood, family, and community settings. Additionally, education professionals assess and discuss resources in the area of early childhood education to further their professional development.

This course focuses on the theories of language acquisition and language development of young children from infancy through preschool. Education professionals explore how children acquire and develop language, and they gain an understanding of emergent reading and writing. They engage in coursework that emphasizes bilingualism, atypical speech and language development, and the impact of culture and environment on language. Additionally, education professionals make connections between course concepts and share ideas and perspectives though weekly discussions on a range of topics, such as language and the brain, adult roles in language development, early literacy, and challenges for second-language learners, among others.

Children’s literature can delight and inspire young readers as well as promote respect for diversity. In this survey course, education professionals focus on the power and quality of children’s literature from birth through adolescence. Education professionals explore a wide variety of genres and learn the characteristics of high-quality literature. They gain practical experience critically evaluating and selecting books from various genres for specific age groups. They also learn about prominent authors, illustrators, and book awards.

Education professionals in this course explore the themes, issues, and developments in the foundations of literacy. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, challenges, and possibilities within the fields of language development and children’s literature. Demonstrating knowledge of key concepts and theories, education professionals engage in written assignments designed to provide practical application of course content on a variety of topics, such as the benefits and impact of literacy, how literacy serves as a tool of social equity, and strategies to support family literacy and literacy programs.

In this course, education professionals explore developmentally appropriate formal and informal assessments, including observational techniques for assessing young children’s development and learning. Education professionals learn how to use specific tools and the data generated from them to inform effective decision making and instructional planning. They also consider and discuss ethical and legal considerations as well as other related issues and controversies. Applying course concepts, education professionals participate in an integrative child observation project through which they gain a deeper understanding of the process of assessment, the role of observation, and the importance of considering children as individuals.

Educators understand that all individuals are unique with varying abilities and needs. This course provides education professionals with an overview of exceptionalities in children from birth through adolescence. They engage in coursework that highlights early identification, referral, intervention, inclusion, and the related psychosocial needs of children and their families. They discuss complexities related to labeling children, inclusion, and challenging myths and stereotypes. In addition, education professionals explore federal and state legislation that guides educational requirements.

In this course, education professionals address themes, issues, and controversies related to the special needs and individuality of children. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, challenges, and possibilities associated with understanding and meeting the needs of individual children and their families. Through written assignments designed to provide practical application of content, education professionals analyze topical sources focused on disability culture and autism and then make connections, describe how their thinking has changed as a result of their analysis, and summarize new perspectives.

This course emphasizes the importance of being responsive to the languages and cultures of individual children and their families and communities to effectively support learning and development. Education professionals broaden their understanding of culture as a framework that includes not only language and ethnicity but also gender, socioeconomic status, exceptionalities, family configuration, sexual orientation, personal interests, and many other aspects of one’s individuality. In addition, education professionals reflect on their own cultural frameworks and examine personal attitudes and beliefs.

Education professionals in this course examine themes, issues, and challenges specific to living in a diverse society. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research and controversies; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends and possibilities related to the areas of social responsibility and cultural and linguistic diversity. They delve deeper into content and share ideas and perspectives through discussions on a range of topics, such as methods to strengthen communities and strategies and challenges of international adoption.

The landscape of early care and education is constantly changing. Education professionals in this course examine these changes, focusing on the roles and responsibilities of the early childhood teaching professional in infant/toddler and preschool settings. Education professionals explore the complexities of developmentally appropriate practice and learn what it means to be an advocate for children, their families, and the profession itself. They engage in discussions and assignments that emphasize the importance of keeping up with current research in the field and engaging in professional activities and organizations to ensure continual professional growth and learning.

This course provides education professionals with the opportunity to focus on the breadth and depth of the field of infant/toddler care and education, emphasizing characteristics of quality infant/toddler programs. Education professionals learn the foundations of infant/toddler development, the integral role of the infant/toddler professional in fostering children’s growth and ensuring family involvement, and theoretical frameworks key to quality programs. They also explore the components of high-quality environments and what it means to be an advocate for young children, their families, and the profession.

An important role of the child development professional is to understand how to use support services and programs to aid the healthy development and learning of young children and their families. In this course, education professionals examine themes, issues, and controversies central to the field of infant/toddler care and education, and they critically analyze ways to support the healthy development and learning of infants and toddlers through food and nutrition programs, vaccinations, and early intervention services. Education professionals make connections between the topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, challenges, and possibilities that infant/toddler professionals must understand.

Positive developmental progress in infants/toddlers depends on many factors, including the overall promotion of mental health, prevention of occurrence or escalation of mental health problems, and the effective treatment of mental health needs. Education professionals in this course explore current research in the field of infant/toddler mental health, through which they gain practical insight on protective and risk factors in family environments; social and emotional developmental challenges; developmentally appropriate infant/toddler screening and assessment; diagnostic classification systems for infant/toddler mental health; effective intervention strategies; and collaborative services approaches. Moreover, education professionals apply course concepts through practical assignments, such as the development of a fact sheet designed to educate child development professionals about the importance of the field of infant/toddler mental health.

This course provides an overview of the way culture impacts typical conceptions of infant/toddler development and interactions. Education professionals focus on the ability to form healthy working relationships and respectful partnerships with the families of infants and toddlers across a range of cultures. They investigate the meaning of various child-rearing behaviors and how they relate to family expectations and cultural traditions, with the goal of developing culturally appropriate practices. Education professionals also make connections and share perspectives through discussions on related topics, such as cultural differences in care-giving practices, attachment and separation, perspectives on play, and effective communication, among others.

Education professionals in this course focus on healthy infant/toddler growth and development as well as related themes, issues, and challenges. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, controversies, and possibilities associated with the overall well-being of very young children. Applying course concepts and gaining deeper insight on topics, education professionals also engage in practical writing activities, such as the development of a resource sheet for child development professionals that includes information on factors promoting healthy growth and development.

Through this course, education professionals engage in an in-depth exploration of infant growth and development. They examine the role of the caregiver; components of high-quality caregiver-child relationships; and strategies for ensuring developmentally appropriate, individually appropriate, and culturally appropriate practice. They also explore methods to understand and work with families, observation skills, attachment, separation, continuity of care, brain development, and the creation of nurturing environments for very young children and their families. Demonstrating their understanding of course content, education professionals apply concepts through practical assignments, such as the development of a newsletter that provides information on the influence of infant settings on supporting young children and their families.  

Education professionals in this course engage in an in-depth exploration of toddler growth and development. They explore the role of the toddler caregiver/teacher; the components of high-quality adult-child relationships; and strategies for ensuring developmentally appropriate, individually appropriate, and culturally appropriate practice. Education professionals engage in readings and course assignments focused on observation skills, attachment, separation, working with families, and creating inspiring and supportive environments for young children and their families. They also share perspectives and make connections through discussions on related topics, such as cultural values and beliefs, separations and reunions, play and the environment, and identity formation and cultural responsiveness, among others.  

In this course, education professionals focus on themes and issues related to the challenge of developing and maintaining high-quality infant/toddler settings. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, controversies, and possibilities related to effective programs for infants and toddlers. Through practical exercises, they describe how infants and toddlers exhibit prosocial behavior as well as why it is important for infant/toddler programs to foster such behavior. Education professionals also compose an article conveying the importance of applying brain research to policies, programs, and/or families to foster lifelong healthy development and learning.

In this course, education professionals address an essential question in early childhood education: Why is play integral to children’s development and learning? They learn the theory, methods, and materials needed to support and enhance children’s play and learning in preschool settings, and they gain an understanding of the vital role of play in fostering growth in each of the developmental domains. They also explore how to arrange developmentally appropriate environments; provide opportunities for high-quality, productive play, and learning experiences; and assess development and learning through observation of play-based activities and learning experiences.

Professionalism, advocacy, and preschool education provide the focus of the themes, issues, and challenges that education professionals examine in this course. Education professionals make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, controversies, and possibilities related to working in the early childhood field with preschool-age children and their families. Applying course concepts, education professionals consider and explain the role and benefits of play for children and adults, and they summarize their thinking in regard to cultivating healthy development and learning in children through connections with nature.

Proactive guidance and positive, safe learning environments promote healthy child development and learning. Education professionals in this course focus on understanding and fostering social and emotional development in preschool-age children, and they learn strategies for establishing classroom communities in which all children feel safe, valued, and respected. They explore a range of topics, including teaching social skills, routines, and procedures; collaborating with families; preventing and working with challenging behaviors; developing problem-solving abilities; and organizing the classroom setting to support learning, cooperation, and social and emotional growth.

All children have the right to develop and learn in classroom communities that support diverse, individual needs. In this course, education professionals explore the ways in which preschool teachers can build inclusive environments that exemplify developmentally appropriate practice. Education professionals learn strategies that support inclusion, meet identified needs, and foster a sense of classroom community. They also engage in coursework focused on observation and assessment, partnership development with families, collaboration with support resources, legal regulations and issues, and the roles of reflection and evidence-based decision making.  

The development of optimal preschool learning environments and related themes, issues, and challenges provide the framework for this course. Education professionals make connections between the topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, controversies, and possibilities associated with establishing effective preschool learning environments. Through a case study scenario, they apply their knowledge of preschool children as well as concepts learned in the course to describe components that they believe are essential to optimal preschool environments. They also consider and summarize the importance of creativity, how creativity has affected their own lives, and how they would go about fostering creativity in the learning environment.

In this course, education professionals explore current research on the most effective methods of promoting literacy development in preschool children. Using the “five pillars” of reading—phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension—as an organizational framework, education professionals explore the characteristics of emergent readers and writers. They also learn about developmentally appropriate assessments, materials, and strategies for instruction, including developing literacy through play and effectively using current technologies. They also engage in coursework that highlights the integral role of literacy across the curriculum.

Teaching within and across specific content areas in the preschool curriculum requires practices that are engaging, meaningful, and developmentally appropriate. Education professionals in this course learn how to develop significant and enduring early childhood learning experiences in mathematics, social studies, science, language and literacy, health and physical education, and the visual and performing arts. They engage in practical applications and discussions on planning and implementing child-centered, age-appropriate curriculum and assessment as well as strategies for integrating content areas, including the project approach.

In this course, education professionals examine the themes, issues, and challenges related to developmentally appropriate teaching and learning at the preschool level. Education professionals make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, controversies, and possibilities associated with interdisciplinary preschool teaching and learning. Using a case study scenario, education professionals demonstrate their understandings of the project approach by developing a short overview explaining its function as well as how it represents developmentally appropriate practice. They also assess examples of project-based learning and evaluate what children can learn from such experiences.

This course provides education professionals the opportunity to integrate theories of child development, principles of effective early childhood practice, and methods of working with young children and their families. Education professionals engage in projects that demonstrate synthesis and application of this knowledge. Through these projects, they consider the knowledge and skills gained throughout the program and how they can apply them to future work in the early childhood/child development field. They also have the opportunity to research a position in early education, interview a professional in the field, develop a resume and cover letter, and reflect on professional competencies and areas for professional growth.

Walden University offers students a dynamic learning environment and a range of support services to ensure academic success. In this course, students immerse themselves in Walden University's online learning environment and apply skills from the student readiness orientation. In addition, students discover and apply the tools and services that will support them throughout their degree program. Through classroom discussions and the application of key communication principles, students establish an online community of peers and explore their degree program with discipline-specific examples. This course helps students prepare for their Walden academic career and continues their orientation to the university.

This course is an overview of the field of early care and education. Education professionals engage in assignments that emphasize the elements of high-quality programs, governing standards and regulations, and historical perspectives. They engage in peer discussions on a range of topics, such as the nature of infant care and education, learning through play, quality education and teaching, the definition of education, and current issues affecting education. Education professionals gain further insight into the profession of teaching and working with children through interviews with teachers of various age groups. Additionally, education professionals explore career options and consider what it means to be a professional in the field of early care and education.

Current perspectives on education and methods of teaching are rooted in history and philosophy as far back as the ancient Greeks. In this course, education professionals explore thinkers, philosophies, and educational programs that have influenced current ideas about effective practices in teaching, including tapping into different forms of intelligence and applying new methods for assessment. Education professionals critically examine educational philosophies and methods in light of current social, political, and economic forces impacting children, families, and the field. Through coursework and discussions, education professionals begin to develop a reasoned, coherent personal philosophy of education as a basis for ethical and professional practice and decision making.

In this course, education professionals explore the early childhood field and related themes, issues, and controversies. Education professionals make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, challenges, and possibilities within the field of early care and education. They investigate professional organizations and research information on early childhood career opportunities. They also reflect on prior knowledge as well as knowledge gained throughout the course in regard to what it means to be a professional in the field of early education.  

How might social class, ethnicity, and gender impact children’s learning? Education professionals in this course have the opportunity to answer such questions through the exploration of psychological concepts and theories as they relate to the field of early care and education. Education professionals examine behavioral, cognitive, social, and constructivist views of learning. They engage in conceptual and applied assignments that emphasize research-based principles as well as implications of these principles on child development, learning, teaching, and assessment. Moreover, they share perspectives and delve deeper into content through weekly discussions on a variety of topics, such as helping children develop and learn, defining intelligence, fostering resilience, analyzing learning experiences, and using motivation theories and principles.

This course provides education professionals with an overview of physical, cognitive/language, and social and emotional development in children from birth through adolescence. Education professionals explore prevailing philosophies and theories of child development and form their own child development philosophy. Through an exploration across various developmental domains and stages, education professionals investigate the latest research and thinking in regard to conditions that affect children’s learning and development, such as risk factors, developmental variations, temperament, rate of maturation, innate abilities, culture, family, community, and societal influences.

Education professionals in this course focus on the themes, issues, and controversies related to child development. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, challenges, and possibilities related to the developing child. Education professionals research and analyze information on brain development, which they use to develop a presentation that could be used to inform stakeholders, such as parents and colleagues. Through this and other assignments designed to provide practical application of content, they summarize their understanding of the developing child, including areas in which they hope to learn more.

Growth and development in young children are influenced by many factors, including nutrition, safety, and health. Education professionals in this course learn about these factors and examine the professional’s role in supporting children’s healthy development within the context of early childhood care and education as well as in family and community settings. They also assess and discuss the prevention of health problems common to young children, methods of promoting wellness and fitness, child safety, emergency preparedness and procedures, and child mental health.

Complex events, such as divorce, child abuse and neglect, and illness and death of family members, are common occurrences in today’s society. This course provides a survey of the ways in which professionals and families work together in supporting child and family resiliency within the context of these complex issues. Education professionals explore formal and informal communication strategies; family participation in group settings; family education; advocacy for families; and the impact of family, culture, and community on children’s development and learning within early childhood programs. Through this course, education professionals have the opportunity to gain the communication and conflict-management skills needed to prepare for future professional challenges in the field of education.

Children’s overall well-being is related not only to their health and safety but also to quality relationships among early childhood professionals, family, and community members. In this course, education professionals examine themes, issues, and challenges related to the fostering of children’s overall well-being. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, developments, and possibilities related to healthy growth and development within early childhood, family, and community settings. Additionally, education professionals assess and discuss resources in the area of early childhood education to further their professional development.

This course focuses on the theories of language acquisition and language development of young children from infancy through preschool. Education professionals explore how children acquire and develop language, and they gain an understanding of emergent reading and writing. They engage in coursework that emphasizes bilingualism, atypical speech and language development, and the impact of culture and environment on language. Additionally, education professionals make connections between course concepts and share ideas and perspectives though weekly discussions on a range of topics, such as language and the brain, adult roles in language development, early literacy, and challenges for second-language learners, among others.

Children’s literature can delight and inspire young readers as well as promote respect for diversity. In this survey course, education professionals focus on the power and quality of children’s literature from birth through adolescence. Education professionals explore a wide variety of genres and learn the characteristics of high-quality literature. They gain practical experience critically evaluating and selecting books from various genres for specific age groups. They also learn about prominent authors, illustrators, and book awards.

Education professionals in this course explore the themes, issues, and developments in the foundations of literacy. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, challenges, and possibilities within the fields of language development and children’s literature. Demonstrating knowledge of key concepts and theories, education professionals engage in written assignments designed to provide practical application of course content on a variety of topics, such as the benefits and impact of literacy, how literacy serves as a tool of social equity, and strategies to support family literacy and literacy programs.

In this course, education professionals explore developmentally appropriate formal and informal assessments, including observational techniques for assessing young children’s development and learning. Education professionals learn how to use specific tools and the data generated from them to inform effective decision making and instructional planning. They also consider and discuss ethical and legal considerations as well as other related issues and controversies. Applying course concepts, education professionals participate in an integrative child observation project through which they gain a deeper understanding of the process of assessment, the role of observation, and the importance of considering children as individuals.

Educators understand that all individuals are unique with varying abilities and needs. This course provides education professionals with an overview of exceptionalities in children from birth through adolescence. They engage in coursework that highlights early identification, referral, intervention, inclusion, and the related psychosocial needs of children and their families. They discuss complexities related to labeling children, inclusion, and challenging myths and stereotypes. In addition, education professionals explore federal and state legislation that guides educational requirements.

In this course, education professionals address themes, issues, and controversies related to the special needs and individuality of children. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, challenges, and possibilities associated with understanding and meeting the needs of individual children and their families. Through written assignments designed to provide practical application of content, education professionals analyze topical sources focused on disability culture and autism and then make connections, describe how their thinking has changed as a result of their analysis, and summarize new perspectives.

This course emphasizes the importance of being responsive to the languages and cultures of individual children and their families and communities to effectively support learning and development. Education professionals broaden their understanding of culture as a framework that includes not only language and ethnicity but also gender, socioeconomic status, exceptionalities, family configuration, sexual orientation, personal interests, and many other aspects of one’s individuality. In addition, education professionals reflect on their own cultural frameworks and examine personal attitudes and beliefs.

Education professionals in this course examine themes, issues, and challenges specific to living in a diverse society. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research and controversies; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends and possibilities related to the areas of social responsibility and cultural and linguistic diversity. They delve deeper into content and share ideas and perspectives through discussions on a range of topics, such as methods to strengthen communities and strategies and challenges of international adoption.

Educators have a responsibility to guide and motivate as well as to foster self-esteem and resilience in school-age children and adolescents. Education professionals in this course address a continuum of effective strategies needed for working with school-age children and adolescents in group and classroom settings. Such strategies include effective communication, positive guidance, modeling/mentoring, intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, fostering self-esteem, promoting resilience, and problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills. They learn to apply theory to practice as they critically analyze several theoretical constructs and consider their implications for working with school-age children and adolescents in group and/or classroom settings.

This course is an introduction for students to the essential factors that promote or challenge the development of personal health and healthy lifestyles, including nutrition, physical fitness, stress management, mental and emotional health, sexuality and relationships, violence and injury, and substance abuse. Students examine how cultural and socioeconomic factors influence people’s perception of their health as well as their health behavior. Students review tools for assessing health and risk and have the opportunity to assess their own health and behavior using a health risk appraisal.

Human nutritional requirements change over the course of the lifespan. This course examines the fundamentals of nutrition and the variation of nutritional needs at different life stages, including pregnancy, lactation, infancy, childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and old age. Students discuss issues such as obesity and eating disorders as well as the link between diet and disease. Students conduct a personal dietary assessment and analyze the relationship between food choices and health status in their own lives.

Physical fitness is an important component of overall health and quality of life. In this course, students focus on the fundamental concepts and principles of physical fitness, including flexibility, cardiovascular health, muscular strength, muscular endurance, and body composition as well as the physiological and psychological processes through which exercise influences health. Students create a personalized fitness program and explore the health advantages of a physically active lifestyle, including the mental, social, and psychological benefits. They also examine the harmful effects of a sedentary lifestyle, particularly with regard to the risk of chronic disease.

This course presents a holistic approach to stress management. It addresses the emotional and physical dimensions of stress as well as their scientific foundations and physiological pathways. Students explore the mind-body connection, and they study fundamental principles, theories, and relaxation techniques—including cognitive and physical behavior change interventions—that can help people effectively manage personal stress. Students also discuss related topics such as anger management, conflict resolution, anxiety, and time management.

The principles and theories of health communication and their application to health promotion and behavior change are the foci of this course. Students examine how to design and deliver health messages to various audiences while remaining sensitive to cultural, socioeconomic, and educational factors influencing the audience. Students evaluate important dimensions of intercultural and intracultural communication and study how to make scholarly writing accessible to the general population. They also explore the use of emerging technologies and social media in marketing and communications.

This course provides education professionals the opportunity to integrate theories of child development, principles of effective early childhood practice, and methods of working with young children and their families. Education professionals engage in projects that demonstrate synthesis and application of this knowledge. Through these projects, they consider the knowledge and skills gained throughout the program and how they can apply them to future work in the early childhood/child development field. They also have the opportunity to research a position in early education, interview a professional in the field, develop a resume and cover letter, and reflect on professional competencies and areas for professional growth.

Walden University offers students a dynamic learning environment and a range of support services to ensure academic success. In this course, students immerse themselves in Walden University's online learning environment and apply skills from the student readiness orientation. In addition, students discover and apply the tools and services that will support them throughout their degree program. Through classroom discussions and the application of key communication principles, students establish an online community of peers and explore their degree program with discipline-specific examples. This course helps students prepare for their Walden academic career and continues their orientation to the university.

This course is an overview of the field of early care and education. Education professionals engage in assignments that emphasize the elements of high-quality programs, governing standards and regulations, and historical perspectives. They engage in peer discussions on a range of topics, such as the nature of infant care and education, learning through play, quality education and teaching, the definition of education, and current issues affecting education. Education professionals gain further insight into the profession of teaching and working with children through interviews with teachers of various age groups. Additionally, education professionals explore career options and consider what it means to be a professional in the field of early care and education.

Current perspectives on education and methods of teaching are rooted in history and philosophy as far back as the ancient Greeks. In this course, education professionals explore thinkers, philosophies, and educational programs that have influenced current ideas about effective practices in teaching, including tapping into different forms of intelligence and applying new methods for assessment. Education professionals critically examine educational philosophies and methods in light of current social, political, and economic forces impacting children, families, and the field. Through coursework and discussions, education professionals begin to develop a reasoned, coherent personal philosophy of education as a basis for ethical and professional practice and decision making.

In this course, education professionals explore the early childhood field and related themes, issues, and controversies. Education professionals make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, challenges, and possibilities within the field of early care and education. They investigate professional organizations and research information on early childhood career opportunities. They also reflect on prior knowledge as well as knowledge gained throughout the course in regard to what it means to be a professional in the field of early education.  

How might social class, ethnicity, and gender impact children’s learning? Education professionals in this course have the opportunity to answer such questions through the exploration of psychological concepts and theories as they relate to the field of early care and education. Education professionals examine behavioral, cognitive, social, and constructivist views of learning. They engage in conceptual and applied assignments that emphasize research-based principles as well as implications of these principles on child development, learning, teaching, and assessment. Moreover, they share perspectives and delve deeper into content through weekly discussions on a variety of topics, such as helping children develop and learn, defining intelligence, fostering resilience, analyzing learning experiences, and using motivation theories and principles.

This course provides education professionals with an overview of physical, cognitive/language, and social and emotional development in children from birth through adolescence. Education professionals explore prevailing philosophies and theories of child development and form their own child development philosophy. Through an exploration across various developmental domains and stages, education professionals investigate the latest research and thinking in regard to conditions that affect children’s learning and development, such as risk factors, developmental variations, temperament, rate of maturation, innate abilities, culture, family, community, and societal influences.

Education professionals in this course focus on the themes, issues, and controversies related to child development. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, challenges, and possibilities related to the developing child. Education professionals research and analyze information on brain development, which they use to develop a presentation that could be used to inform stakeholders, such as parents and colleagues. Through this and other assignments designed to provide practical application of content, they summarize their understanding of the developing child, including areas in which they hope to learn more.

Growth and development in young children are influenced by many factors, including nutrition, safety, and health. Education professionals in this course learn about these factors and examine the professional’s role in supporting children’s healthy development within the context of early childhood care and education as well as in family and community settings. They also assess and discuss the prevention of health problems common to young children, methods of promoting wellness and fitness, child safety, emergency preparedness and procedures, and child mental health.

Complex events, such as divorce, child abuse and neglect, and illness and death of family members, are common occurrences in today’s society. This course provides a survey of the ways in which professionals and families work together in supporting child and family resiliency within the context of these complex issues. Education professionals explore formal and informal communication strategies; family participation in group settings; family education; advocacy for families; and the impact of family, culture, and community on children’s development and learning within early childhood programs. Through this course, education professionals have the opportunity to gain the communication and conflict-management skills needed to prepare for future professional challenges in the field of education.

Children’s overall well-being is related not only to their health and safety but also to quality relationships among early childhood professionals, family, and community members. In this course, education professionals examine themes, issues, and challenges related to the fostering of children’s overall well-being. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, developments, and possibilities related to healthy growth and development within early childhood, family, and community settings. Additionally, education professionals assess and discuss resources in the area of early childhood education to further their professional development.

This course focuses on the theories of language acquisition and language development of young children from infancy through preschool. Education professionals explore how children acquire and develop language, and they gain an understanding of emergent reading and writing. They engage in coursework that emphasizes bilingualism, atypical speech and language development, and the impact of culture and environment on language. Additionally, education professionals make connections between course concepts and share ideas and perspectives though weekly discussions on a range of topics, such as language and the brain, adult roles in language development, early literacy, and challenges for second-language learners, among others.

Children’s literature can delight and inspire young readers as well as promote respect for diversity. In this survey course, education professionals focus on the power and quality of children’s literature from birth through adolescence. Education professionals explore a wide variety of genres and learn the characteristics of high-quality literature. They gain practical experience critically evaluating and selecting books from various genres for specific age groups. They also learn about prominent authors, illustrators, and book awards.

Education professionals in this course explore the themes, issues, and developments in the foundations of literacy. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, challenges, and possibilities within the fields of language development and children’s literature. Demonstrating knowledge of key concepts and theories, education professionals engage in written assignments designed to provide practical application of course content on a variety of topics, such as the benefits and impact of literacy, how literacy serves as a tool of social equity, and strategies to support family literacy and literacy programs.

In this course, education professionals explore developmentally appropriate formal and informal assessments, including observational techniques for assessing young children’s development and learning. Education professionals learn how to use specific tools and the data generated from them to inform effective decision making and instructional planning. They also consider and discuss ethical and legal considerations as well as other related issues and controversies. Applying course concepts, education professionals participate in an integrative child observation project through which they gain a deeper understanding of the process of assessment, the role of observation, and the importance of considering children as individuals.

Educators understand that all individuals are unique with varying abilities and needs. This course provides education professionals with an overview of exceptionalities in children from birth through adolescence. They engage in coursework that highlights early identification, referral, intervention, inclusion, and the related psychosocial needs of children and their families. They discuss complexities related to labeling children, inclusion, and challenging myths and stereotypes. In addition, education professionals explore federal and state legislation that guides educational requirements.

In this course, education professionals address themes, issues, and controversies related to the special needs and individuality of children. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, challenges, and possibilities associated with understanding and meeting the needs of individual children and their families. Through written assignments designed to provide practical application of content, education professionals analyze topical sources focused on disability culture and autism and then make connections, describe how their thinking has changed as a result of their analysis, and summarize new perspectives.

This course emphasizes the importance of being responsive to the languages and cultures of individual children and their families and communities to effectively support learning and development. Education professionals broaden their understanding of culture as a framework that includes not only language and ethnicity but also gender, socioeconomic status, exceptionalities, family configuration, sexual orientation, personal interests, and many other aspects of one’s individuality. In addition, education professionals reflect on their own cultural frameworks and examine personal attitudes and beliefs.

Education professionals in this course examine themes, issues, and challenges specific to living in a diverse society. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research and controversies; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends and possibilities related to the areas of social responsibility and cultural and linguistic diversity. They delve deeper into content and share ideas and perspectives through discussions on a range of topics, such as methods to strengthen communities and strategies and challenges of international adoption.

The landscape of early care and education is constantly changing. Education professionals in this course examine these changes, focusing on the roles and responsibilities of the early childhood teaching professional in infant/toddler and preschool settings. Education professionals explore the complexities of developmentally appropriate practice and learn what it means to be an advocate for children, their families, and the profession itself. They engage in discussions and assignments that emphasize the importance of keeping up with current research in the field and engaging in professional activities and organizations to ensure continual professional growth and learning.

This course provides education professionals with the opportunity to focus on the breadth and depth of the field of infant/toddler care and education, emphasizing characteristics of quality infant/toddler programs. Education professionals learn the foundations of infant/toddler development, the integral role of the infant/toddler professional in fostering children’s growth and ensuring family involvement, and theoretical frameworks key to quality programs. They also explore the components of high-quality environments and what it means to be an advocate for young children, their families, and the profession.

An important role of the child development professional is to understand how to use support services and programs to aid the healthy development and learning of young children and their families. In this course, education professionals examine themes, issues, and controversies central to the field of infant/toddler care and education, and they critically analyze ways to support the healthy development and learning of infants and toddlers through food and nutrition programs, vaccinations, and early intervention services. Education professionals make connections between the topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, challenges, and possibilities that infant/toddler professionals must understand.

Positive developmental progress in infants/toddlers depends on many factors, including the overall promotion of mental health, prevention of occurrence or escalation of mental health problems, and the effective treatment of mental health needs. Education professionals in this course explore current research in the field of infant/toddler mental health, through which they gain practical insight on protective and risk factors in family environments; social and emotional developmental challenges; developmentally appropriate infant/toddler screening and assessment; diagnostic classification systems for infant/toddler mental health; effective intervention strategies; and collaborative services approaches. Moreover, education professionals apply course concepts through practical assignments, such as the development of a fact sheet designed to educate child development professionals about the importance of the field of infant/toddler mental health.

This course provides an overview of the way culture impacts typical conceptions of infant/toddler development and interactions. Education professionals focus on the ability to form healthy working relationships and respectful partnerships with the families of infants and toddlers across a range of cultures. They investigate the meaning of various child-rearing behaviors and how they relate to family expectations and cultural traditions, with the goal of developing culturally appropriate practices. Education professionals also make connections and share perspectives through discussions on related topics, such as cultural differences in care-giving practices, attachment and separation, perspectives on play, and effective communication, among others.

Education professionals in this course focus on healthy infant/toddler growth and development as well as related themes, issues, and challenges. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, controversies, and possibilities associated with the overall well-being of very young children. Applying course concepts and gaining deeper insight on topics, education professionals also engage in practical writing activities, such as the development of a resource sheet for child development professionals that includes information on factors promoting healthy growth and development.

Through this course, education professionals engage in an in-depth exploration of infant growth and development. They examine the role of the caregiver; components of high-quality caregiver-child relationships; and strategies for ensuring developmentally appropriate, individually appropriate, and culturally appropriate practice. They also explore methods to understand and work with families, observation skills, attachment, separation, continuity of care, brain development, and the creation of nurturing environments for very young children and their families. Demonstrating their understanding of course content, education professionals apply concepts through practical assignments, such as the development of a newsletter that provides information on the influence of infant settings on supporting young children and their families.  

Education professionals in this course engage in an in-depth exploration of toddler growth and development. They explore the role of the toddler caregiver/teacher; the components of high-quality adult-child relationships; and strategies for ensuring developmentally appropriate, individually appropriate, and culturally appropriate practice. Education professionals engage in readings and course assignments focused on observation skills, attachment, separation, working with families, and creating inspiring and supportive environments for young children and their families. They also share perspectives and make connections through discussions on related topics, such as cultural values and beliefs, separations and reunions, play and the environment, and identity formation and cultural responsiveness, among others.  

In this course, education professionals focus on themes and issues related to the challenge of developing and maintaining high-quality infant/toddler settings. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, controversies, and possibilities related to effective programs for infants and toddlers. Through practical exercises, they describe how infants and toddlers exhibit prosocial behavior as well as why it is important for infant/toddler programs to foster such behavior. Education professionals also compose an article conveying the importance of applying brain research to policies, programs, and/or families to foster lifelong healthy development and learning.

This course provides education professionals the opportunity to integrate theories of child development, principles of effective early childhood practice, and methods of working with young children and their families. Education professionals engage in projects that demonstrate synthesis and application of this knowledge. Through these projects, they consider the knowledge and skills gained throughout the program and how they can apply them to future work in the early childhood/child development field. They also have the opportunity to research a position in early education, interview a professional in the field, develop a resume and cover letter, and reflect on professional competencies and areas for professional growth.

Walden University offers students a dynamic learning environment and a range of support services to ensure academic success. In this course, students immerse themselves in Walden University's online learning environment and apply skills from the student readiness orientation. In addition, students discover and apply the tools and services that will support them throughout their degree program. Through classroom discussions and the application of key communication principles, students establish an online community of peers and explore their degree program with discipline-specific examples. This course helps students prepare for their Walden academic career and continues their orientation to the university.

This course is an overview of the field of early care and education. Education professionals engage in assignments that emphasize the elements of high-quality programs, governing standards and regulations, and historical perspectives. They engage in peer discussions on a range of topics, such as the nature of infant care and education, learning through play, quality education and teaching, the definition of education, and current issues affecting education. Education professionals gain further insight into the profession of teaching and working with children through interviews with teachers of various age groups. Additionally, education professionals explore career options and consider what it means to be a professional in the field of early care and education.

Current perspectives on education and methods of teaching are rooted in history and philosophy as far back as the ancient Greeks. In this course, education professionals explore thinkers, philosophies, and educational programs that have influenced current ideas about effective practices in teaching, including tapping into different forms of intelligence and applying new methods for assessment. Education professionals critically examine educational philosophies and methods in light of current social, political, and economic forces impacting children, families, and the field. Through coursework and discussions, education professionals begin to develop a reasoned, coherent personal philosophy of education as a basis for ethical and professional practice and decision making.

In this course, education professionals explore the early childhood field and related themes, issues, and controversies. Education professionals make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, challenges, and possibilities within the field of early care and education. They investigate professional organizations and research information on early childhood career opportunities. They also reflect on prior knowledge as well as knowledge gained throughout the course in regard to what it means to be a professional in the field of early education.  

How might social class, ethnicity, and gender impact children’s learning? Education professionals in this course have the opportunity to answer such questions through the exploration of psychological concepts and theories as they relate to the field of early care and education. Education professionals examine behavioral, cognitive, social, and constructivist views of learning. They engage in conceptual and applied assignments that emphasize research-based principles as well as implications of these principles on child development, learning, teaching, and assessment. Moreover, they share perspectives and delve deeper into content through weekly discussions on a variety of topics, such as helping children develop and learn, defining intelligence, fostering resilience, analyzing learning experiences, and using motivation theories and principles.

This course provides education professionals with an overview of physical, cognitive/language, and social and emotional development in children from birth through adolescence. Education professionals explore prevailing philosophies and theories of child development and form their own child development philosophy. Through an exploration across various developmental domains and stages, education professionals investigate the latest research and thinking in regard to conditions that affect children’s learning and development, such as risk factors, developmental variations, temperament, rate of maturation, innate abilities, culture, family, community, and societal influences.

Education professionals in this course focus on the themes, issues, and controversies related to child development. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, challenges, and possibilities related to the developing child. Education professionals research and analyze information on brain development, which they use to develop a presentation that could be used to inform stakeholders, such as parents and colleagues. Through this and other assignments designed to provide practical application of content, they summarize their understanding of the developing child, including areas in which they hope to learn more.

Growth and development in young children are influenced by many factors, including nutrition, safety, and health. Education professionals in this course learn about these factors and examine the professional’s role in supporting children’s healthy development within the context of early childhood care and education as well as in family and community settings. They also assess and discuss the prevention of health problems common to young children, methods of promoting wellness and fitness, child safety, emergency preparedness and procedures, and child mental health.

Complex events, such as divorce, child abuse and neglect, and illness and death of family members, are common occurrences in today’s society. This course provides a survey of the ways in which professionals and families work together in supporting child and family resiliency within the context of these complex issues. Education professionals explore formal and informal communication strategies; family participation in group settings; family education; advocacy for families; and the impact of family, culture, and community on children’s development and learning within early childhood programs. Through this course, education professionals have the opportunity to gain the communication and conflict-management skills needed to prepare for future professional challenges in the field of education.

Children’s overall well-being is related not only to their health and safety but also to quality relationships among early childhood professionals, family, and community members. In this course, education professionals examine themes, issues, and challenges related to the fostering of children’s overall well-being. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, developments, and possibilities related to healthy growth and development within early childhood, family, and community settings. Additionally, education professionals assess and discuss resources in the area of early childhood education to further their professional development.

This course focuses on the theories of language acquisition and language development of young children from infancy through preschool. Education professionals explore how children acquire and develop language, and they gain an understanding of emergent reading and writing. They engage in coursework that emphasizes bilingualism, atypical speech and language development, and the impact of culture and environment on language. Additionally, education professionals make connections between course concepts and share ideas and perspectives though weekly discussions on a range of topics, such as language and the brain, adult roles in language development, early literacy, and challenges for second-language learners, among others.

Children’s literature can delight and inspire young readers as well as promote respect for diversity. In this survey course, education professionals focus on the power and quality of children’s literature from birth through adolescence. Education professionals explore a wide variety of genres and learn the characteristics of high-quality literature. They gain practical experience critically evaluating and selecting books from various genres for specific age groups. They also learn about prominent authors, illustrators, and book awards.

Education professionals in this course explore the themes, issues, and developments in the foundations of literacy. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, challenges, and possibilities within the fields of language development and children’s literature. Demonstrating knowledge of key concepts and theories, education professionals engage in written assignments designed to provide practical application of course content on a variety of topics, such as the benefits and impact of literacy, how literacy serves as a tool of social equity, and strategies to support family literacy and literacy programs.

In this course, education professionals explore developmentally appropriate formal and informal assessments, including observational techniques for assessing young children’s development and learning. Education professionals learn how to use specific tools and the data generated from them to inform effective decision making and instructional planning. They also consider and discuss ethical and legal considerations as well as other related issues and controversies. Applying course concepts, education professionals participate in an integrative child observation project through which they gain a deeper understanding of the process of assessment, the role of observation, and the importance of considering children as individuals.

Educators understand that all individuals are unique with varying abilities and needs. This course provides education professionals with an overview of exceptionalities in children from birth through adolescence. They engage in coursework that highlights early identification, referral, intervention, inclusion, and the related psychosocial needs of children and their families. They discuss complexities related to labeling children, inclusion, and challenging myths and stereotypes. In addition, education professionals explore federal and state legislation that guides educational requirements.

In this course, education professionals address themes, issues, and controversies related to the special needs and individuality of children. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, challenges, and possibilities associated with understanding and meeting the needs of individual children and their families. Through written assignments designed to provide practical application of content, education professionals analyze topical sources focused on disability culture and autism and then make connections, describe how their thinking has changed as a result of their analysis, and summarize new perspectives.

This course emphasizes the importance of being responsive to the languages and cultures of individual children and their families and communities to effectively support learning and development. Education professionals broaden their understanding of culture as a framework that includes not only language and ethnicity but also gender, socioeconomic status, exceptionalities, family configuration, sexual orientation, personal interests, and many other aspects of one’s individuality. In addition, education professionals reflect on their own cultural frameworks and examine personal attitudes and beliefs.

Education professionals in this course examine themes, issues, and challenges specific to living in a diverse society. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research and controversies; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends and possibilities related to the areas of social responsibility and cultural and linguistic diversity. They delve deeper into content and share ideas and perspectives through discussions on a range of topics, such as methods to strengthen communities and strategies and challenges of international adoption.

The landscape of early care and education is constantly changing. Education professionals in this course examine these changes, focusing on the roles and responsibilities of the early childhood teaching professional in infant/toddler and preschool settings. Education professionals explore the complexities of developmentally appropriate practice and learn what it means to be an advocate for children, their families, and the profession itself. They engage in discussions and assignments that emphasize the importance of keeping up with current research in the field and engaging in professional activities and organizations to ensure continual professional growth and learning.

In this course, education professionals address an essential question in early childhood education: Why is play integral to children’s development and learning? They learn the theory, methods, and materials needed to support and enhance children’s play and learning in preschool settings, and they gain an understanding of the vital role of play in fostering growth in each of the developmental domains. They also explore how to arrange developmentally appropriate environments; provide opportunities for high-quality, productive play, and learning experiences; and assess development and learning through observation of play-based activities and learning experiences.

Professionalism, advocacy, and preschool education provide the focus of the themes, issues, and challenges that education professionals examine in this course. Education professionals make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, controversies, and possibilities related to working in the early childhood field with preschool-age children and their families. Applying course concepts, education professionals consider and explain the role and benefits of play for children and adults, and they summarize their thinking in regard to cultivating healthy development and learning in children through connections with nature.

Proactive guidance and positive, safe learning environments promote healthy child development and learning. Education professionals in this course focus on understanding and fostering social and emotional development in preschool-age children, and they learn strategies for establishing classroom communities in which all children feel safe, valued, and respected. They explore a range of topics, including teaching social skills, routines, and procedures; collaborating with families; preventing and working with challenging behaviors; developing problem-solving abilities; and organizing the classroom setting to support learning, cooperation, and social and emotional growth.

All children have the right to develop and learn in classroom communities that support diverse, individual needs. In this course, education professionals explore the ways in which preschool teachers can build inclusive environments that exemplify developmentally appropriate practice. Education professionals learn strategies that support inclusion, meet identified needs, and foster a sense of classroom community. They also engage in coursework focused on observation and assessment, partnership development with families, collaboration with support resources, legal regulations and issues, and the roles of reflection and evidence-based decision making.  

The development of optimal preschool learning environments and related themes, issues, and challenges provide the framework for this course. Education professionals make connections between the topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, controversies, and possibilities associated with establishing effective preschool learning environments. Through a case study scenario, they apply their knowledge of preschool children as well as concepts learned in the course to describe components that they believe are essential to optimal preschool environments. They also consider and summarize the importance of creativity, how creativity has affected their own lives, and how they would go about fostering creativity in the learning environment.

In this course, education professionals explore current research on the most effective methods of promoting literacy development in preschool children. Using the “five pillars” of reading—phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension—as an organizational framework, education professionals explore the characteristics of emergent readers and writers. They also learn about developmentally appropriate assessments, materials, and strategies for instruction, including developing literacy through play and effectively using current technologies. They also engage in coursework that highlights the integral role of literacy across the curriculum.

Teaching within and across specific content areas in the preschool curriculum requires practices that are engaging, meaningful, and developmentally appropriate. Education professionals in this course learn how to develop significant and enduring early childhood learning experiences in mathematics, social studies, science, language and literacy, health and physical education, and the visual and performing arts. They engage in practical applications and discussions on planning and implementing child-centered, age-appropriate curriculum and assessment as well as strategies for integrating content areas, including the project approach.

In this course, education professionals examine the themes, issues, and challenges related to developmentally appropriate teaching and learning at the preschool level. Education professionals make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, controversies, and possibilities associated with interdisciplinary preschool teaching and learning. Using a case study scenario, education professionals demonstrate their understandings of the project approach by developing a short overview explaining its function as well as how it represents developmentally appropriate practice. They also assess examples of project-based learning and evaluate what children can learn from such experiences.

This course provides education professionals the opportunity to integrate theories of child development, principles of effective early childhood practice, and methods of working with young children and their families. Education professionals engage in projects that demonstrate synthesis and application of this knowledge. Through these projects, they consider the knowledge and skills gained throughout the program and how they can apply them to future work in the early childhood/child development field. They also have the opportunity to research a position in early education, interview a professional in the field, develop a resume and cover letter, and reflect on professional competencies and areas for professional growth.

Walden University offers students a dynamic learning environment and a range of support services to ensure academic success. In this course, students immerse themselves in Walden University's online learning environment and apply skills from the student readiness orientation. In addition, students discover and apply the tools and services that will support them throughout their degree program. Through classroom discussions and the application of key communication principles, students establish an online community of peers and explore their degree program with discipline-specific examples. This course helps students prepare for their Walden academic career and continues their orientation to the university.

This course is an overview of the field of early care and education. Education professionals engage in assignments that emphasize the elements of high-quality programs, governing standards and regulations, and historical perspectives. They engage in peer discussions on a range of topics, such as the nature of infant care and education, learning through play, quality education and teaching, the definition of education, and current issues affecting education. Education professionals gain further insight into the profession of teaching and working with children through interviews with teachers of various age groups. Additionally, education professionals explore career options and consider what it means to be a professional in the field of early care and education.

Current perspectives on education and methods of teaching are rooted in history and philosophy as far back as the ancient Greeks. In this course, education professionals explore thinkers, philosophies, and educational programs that have influenced current ideas about effective practices in teaching, including tapping into different forms of intelligence and applying new methods for assessment. Education professionals critically examine educational philosophies and methods in light of current social, political, and economic forces impacting children, families, and the field. Through coursework and discussions, education professionals begin to develop a reasoned, coherent personal philosophy of education as a basis for ethical and professional practice and decision making.

In this course, education professionals explore the early childhood field and related themes, issues, and controversies. Education professionals make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, challenges, and possibilities within the field of early care and education. They investigate professional organizations and research information on early childhood career opportunities. They also reflect on prior knowledge as well as knowledge gained throughout the course in regard to what it means to be a professional in the field of early education.  

How might social class, ethnicity, and gender impact children’s learning? Education professionals in this course have the opportunity to answer such questions through the exploration of psychological concepts and theories as they relate to the field of early care and education. Education professionals examine behavioral, cognitive, social, and constructivist views of learning. They engage in conceptual and applied assignments that emphasize research-based principles as well as implications of these principles on child development, learning, teaching, and assessment. Moreover, they share perspectives and delve deeper into content through weekly discussions on a variety of topics, such as helping children develop and learn, defining intelligence, fostering resilience, analyzing learning experiences, and using motivation theories and principles.

This course provides education professionals with an overview of physical, cognitive/language, and social and emotional development in children from birth through adolescence. Education professionals explore prevailing philosophies and theories of child development and form their own child development philosophy. Through an exploration across various developmental domains and stages, education professionals investigate the latest research and thinking in regard to conditions that affect children’s learning and development, such as risk factors, developmental variations, temperament, rate of maturation, innate abilities, culture, family, community, and societal influences.

Growth and development in young children are influenced by many factors, including nutrition, safety, and health. Education professionals in this course learn about these factors and examine the professional’s role in supporting children’s healthy development within the context of early childhood care and education as well as in family and community settings. They also assess and discuss the prevention of health problems common to young children, methods of promoting wellness and fitness, child safety, emergency preparedness and procedures, and child mental health.

Complex events, such as divorce, child abuse and neglect, and illness and death of family members, are common occurrences in today’s society. This course provides a survey of the ways in which professionals and families work together in supporting child and family resiliency within the context of these complex issues. Education professionals explore formal and informal communication strategies; family participation in group settings; family education; advocacy for families; and the impact of family, culture, and community on children’s development and learning within early childhood programs. Through this course, education professionals have the opportunity to gain the communication and conflict-management skills needed to prepare for future professional challenges in the field of education.

Education professionals in this course focus on the themes, issues, and controversies related to child development. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, challenges, and possibilities related to the developing child. Education professionals research and analyze information on brain development, which they use to develop a presentation that could be used to inform stakeholders, such as parents and colleagues. Through this and other assignments designed to provide practical application of content, they summarize their understanding of the developing child, including areas in which they hope to learn more.

Children’s overall well-being is related not only to their health and safety but also to quality relationships among early childhood professionals, family, and community members. In this course, education professionals examine themes, issues, and challenges related to the fostering of children’s overall well-being. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, developments, and possibilities related to healthy growth and development within early childhood, family, and community settings. Additionally, education professionals assess and discuss resources in the area of early childhood education to further their professional development.

This course focuses on the theories of language acquisition and language development of young children from infancy through preschool. Education professionals explore how children acquire and develop language, and they gain an understanding of emergent reading and writing. They engage in coursework that emphasizes bilingualism, atypical speech and language development, and the impact of culture and environment on language. Additionally, education professionals make connections between course concepts and share ideas and perspectives though weekly discussions on a range of topics, such as language and the brain, adult roles in language development, early literacy, and challenges for second-language learners, among others.

Children’s literature can delight and inspire young readers as well as promote respect for diversity. In this survey course, education professionals focus on the power and quality of children’s literature from birth through adolescence. Education professionals explore a wide variety of genres and learn the characteristics of high-quality literature. They gain practical experience critically evaluating and selecting books from various genres for specific age groups. They also learn about prominent authors, illustrators, and book awards.

Education professionals in this course explore the themes, issues, and developments in the foundations of literacy. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, challenges, and possibilities within the fields of language development and children’s literature. Demonstrating knowledge of key concepts and theories, education professionals engage in written assignments designed to provide practical application of course content on a variety of topics, such as the benefits and impact of literacy, how literacy serves as a tool of social equity, and strategies to support family literacy and literacy programs.

In this course, education professionals explore developmentally appropriate formal and informal assessments, including observational techniques for assessing young children’s development and learning. Education professionals learn how to use specific tools and the data generated from them to inform effective decision making and instructional planning. They also consider and discuss ethical and legal considerations as well as other related issues and controversies. Applying course concepts, education professionals participate in an integrative child observation project through which they gain a deeper understanding of the process of assessment, the role of observation, and the importance of considering children as individuals.

Educators understand that all individuals are unique with varying abilities and needs. This course provides education professionals with an overview of exceptionalities in children from birth through adolescence. They engage in coursework that highlights early identification, referral, intervention, inclusion, and the related psychosocial needs of children and their families. They discuss complexities related to labeling children, inclusion, and challenging myths and stereotypes. In addition, education professionals explore federal and state legislation that guides educational requirements.

This course emphasizes the importance of being responsive to the languages and cultures of individual children and their families and communities to effectively support learning and development. Education professionals broaden their understanding of culture as a framework that includes not only language and ethnicity but also gender, socioeconomic status, exceptionalities, family configuration, sexual orientation, personal interests, and many other aspects of one’s individuality. In addition, education professionals reflect on their own cultural frameworks and examine personal attitudes and beliefs.

In this course, education professionals address themes, issues, and controversies related to the special needs and individuality of children. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends, challenges, and possibilities associated with understanding and meeting the needs of individual children and their families. Through written assignments designed to provide practical application of content, education professionals analyze topical sources focused on disability culture and autism and then make connections, describe how their thinking has changed as a result of their analysis, and summarize new perspectives.

Education professionals in this course examine themes, issues, and challenges specific to living in a diverse society. They make connections between key topics and their own personal experiences, interests, and aspirations; other coursework; current research and controversies; real-world early childhood settings; and future trends and possibilities related to the areas of social responsibility and cultural and linguistic diversity. They delve deeper into content and share ideas and perspectives through discussions on a range of topics, such as methods to strengthen communities and strategies and challenges of international adoption.

The landscape of early care and education is constantly changing. Education professionals in this course examine these changes, focusing on the roles and responsibilities of the early childhood teaching professional in infant/toddler and preschool settings. Education professionals explore the complexities of developmentally appropriate practice and learn what it means to be an advocate for children, their families, and the profession itself. They engage in discussions and assignments that emphasize the importance of keeping up with current research in the field and engaging in professional activities and organizations to ensure continual professional growth and learning.

Proactive guidance and positive, safe learning environments promote healthy child development and learning. Education professionals in this course focus on understanding and fostering social and emotional development in preschool-age children, and they learn strategies for establishing classroom communities in which all children feel safe, valued, and respected. They explore a range of topics, including teaching social skills, routines, and procedures; collaborating with families; preventing and working with challenging behaviors; developing problem-solving abilities; and organizing the classroom setting to support learning, cooperation, and social and emotional growth.

Positive developmental progress in infants/toddlers depends on many factors, including the overall promotion of mental health, prevention of occurrence or escalation of mental health problems, and the effective treatment of mental health needs. Education professionals in this course explore current research in the field of infant/toddler mental health, through which they gain practical insight on protective and risk factors in family environments; social and emotional developmental challenges; developmentally appropriate infant/toddler screening and assessment; diagnostic classification systems for infant/toddler mental health; effective intervention strategies; and collaborative services approaches. Moreover, education professionals apply course concepts through practical assignments, such as the development of a fact sheet designed to educate child development professionals about the importance of the field of infant/toddler mental health.

Education professionals in this course gain a fundamental understanding of how school-age children and adolescents develop and learn. They examine typical and atypical cognitive, physical, and social-emotional development as well as the relationship among these developmental domains. They also compare theories of development; develop a presentation that identifies and explains specific strategies, methods, or activities for the promotion of health and well-being in middle childhood; engage in a field study to gain real-world insight on the affective and social development of children between the ages of 6 and 12; and complete an integrative research paper on critical, topical issues related to school-age and adolescent development.

Educators have a responsibility to guide and motivate as well as to foster self-esteem and resilience in school-age children and adolescents. Education professionals in this course address a continuum of effective strategies needed for working with school-age children and adolescents in group and classroom settings. Such strategies include effective communication, positive guidance, modeling/mentoring, intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, fostering self-esteem, promoting resilience, and problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills. They learn to apply theory to practice as they critically analyze several theoretical constructs and consider their implications for working with school-age children and adolescents in group and/or classroom settings.

In this course, education professionals address an essential question in early childhood education: Why is play integral to children’s development and learning? They learn the theory, methods, and materials needed to support and enhance children’s play and learning in preschool settings, and they gain an understanding of the vital role of play in fostering growth in each of the developmental domains. They also explore how to arrange developmentally appropriate environments; provide opportunities for high-quality, productive play, and learning experiences; and assess development and learning through observation of play-based activities and learning experiences.

Through this course, education professionals engage in an in-depth exploration of infant growth and development. They examine the role of the caregiver; components of high-quality caregiver-child relationships; and strategies for ensuring developmentally appropriate, individually appropriate, and culturally appropriate practice. They also explore methods to understand and work with families, observation skills, attachment, separation, continuity of care, brain development, and the creation of nurturing environments for very young children and their families. Demonstrating their understanding of course content, education professionals apply concepts through practical assignments, such as the development of a newsletter that provides information on the influence of infant settings on supporting young children and their families.  

Education professionals in this course engage in an in-depth exploration of toddler growth and development. They explore the role of the toddler caregiver/teacher; the components of high-quality adult-child relationships; and strategies for ensuring developmentally appropriate, individually appropriate, and culturally appropriate practice. Education professionals engage in readings and course assignments focused on observation skills, attachment, separation, working with families, and creating inspiring and supportive environments for young children and their families. They also share perspectives and make connections through discussions on related topics, such as cultural values and beliefs, separations and reunions, play and the environment, and identity formation and cultural responsiveness, among others.  

Psychology, as it is known today, has roots in philosophy and in the natural sciences, such as biology and chemistry. In this course, the first of a two-course sequence, students explore major theories and topics related to the natural science aspect of the science of psychology. They examine methods of analysis, learning, memory, cognitive principles, and brain functioning as they relate to psychology, sensation, perception, evolution, motivation, and emotions. Students engage in practical discussions and application-based assignments to gain an understanding of how biological and physiological processes influence behavior. (Prerequisites: COMM 1001.)

In many ways, contemporary psychology is the study of how people interact, relate, and develop as members of society. In this course, the second part of a two-course sequence, students explore the principal theories, topics, and applications related to the social science aspects of psychology, including social, developmental, cultural, personality, and abnormal psychology. Students apply what they learn to case studies and real-life examples, focusing on how the environment influences individuals. (Prerequisites: COMM 1001.)  

What drives people to do what they do? In this course students have the opportunity to answer this question as they explore basic theories of motivation and emotion. They also explore bodily needs, such as hunger, thirst, and sex, that drive people to action; concepts in motivation, such as achievement, altruism, and conflict; and concepts related to emotion, including happiness, hormonal influences, and mood. Students assess content and share different perspectives through peer discussions on related topics, such as sources of motivation, hunger and eating, need for power, extraversion, goals, and decision making. (Prerequisites: PSYC 1001, PSYC 1002, or PSYC 1003.)

Individuals are often influenced by others and by the social situations in which they find themselves. Students in this course examine the basic concepts and applications of social psychology, including attitudes, beliefs, and behavior; stereotyping; prejudice and discrimination; interpersonal relationships; group behavior; and the effect of environmental stress on behavior. They also learn how bias can sway objective conclusions as well as how ethical factors influence research in social psychology. Students apply principles and theories presented in the course to case studies and situations in daily life, including instances of stereotyping and discrimination. They also use these theories to understand strategies for helping others and reducing aggressive behavior. (Prerequisites: PSYC 1001, or PSYC 1002, or PSYC 1003.)

The study of the brain and how it functions has contributed significantly to the understanding of how people react and adapt to their environments. In this course, students examine basic brain physiology and learn how the brain functions to control behavior. Students explore specific applications of brain structure to memory and attention, sensation and perception, development, socialization, motivation and emotion, and socialization. They apply concepts and theories about the brain to psychological health and well-being. (Prerequisites: PSYC 1001, or PSYC 1002, or PSYC 1003.)

This course provides education professionals with the opportunity to integrate knowledge of child development; principles and methods of working with school-age children and adolescents; and current research, issues, and trends that affect this age group. They create an integrative project that demonstrates synthesis and application of this knowledge. They consider professional goals while reflecting on research, issues, and trends explored throughout the program. Education professionals research a variety of positions in the field based on interests gained from learning experiences, and they develop a resume and cover letter to distinguish themselves competitively. Additionally, they complete a professional development plan through which they set goals and consider areas for further professional development.

This course provides education professionals the opportunity to integrate theories of child development, principles of effective early childhood practice, and methods of working with young children and their families. Education professionals engage in projects that demonstrate synthesis and application of this knowledge. Through these projects, they consider the knowledge and skills gained throughout the program and how they can apply them to future work in the early childhood/child development field. They also have the opportunity to research a position in early education, interview a professional in the field, develop a resume and cover letter, and reflect on professional competencies and areas for professional growth.