The Early Childhood Education (ECE) course gives an in-depth study of the sensorial approach to education in the context of early childhood education. This includes learning appropriate methodology, classroom management, and developing a biblical curriculum that teaches young children about the nature and character of God. As a student of the ECE, you will develop God’s heart for young children and their families, learn how to build a curriculum that nurtures young children in the character of God, and explore the many avenues of age-appropriate learning.
The prerequisite to the ECE is the Foundations in Education (FIE) course. Subsequently taking the ECE after the FIE, followed by Internships I & II and a field assignment, leads to an Associate of Science degree in Early Childhood Education with the University of the Nations. The internships and field assignment provide an opportunity to practice applying the principles learned in the courses in a safe, supervised classroom setting.
Main Topics
- Biblical curriculum for early childhood education
- Early childhood methodologies (Science, Mathematics, Practical life, Sensorial, Language etc.)
- Classroom management
- Children’s literature
- Importance of play
- Observation and record keeping
- Methods of discipline
- Community relations
- Children’s art
Internship I & II (two, 12-week periods)
This is a 6-month period where students put theory into practice as they take responsibility for classroom management, Bible instruction, and creating learning projects while under the supervision of a lead teacher and school staff. The students will gradually assume more responsibility in the classroom, gaining skills and experience that will equip them to become early childhood educators. Participating in workshops and receiving mentoring are important elements during the internships.
Field Assignment (12 weeks)
Within the context of a cross-cultural setting, students will promote a biblical approach to early childhood education. This is done through conducting seminars or workshops, assisting in an established preschool, or actually helping to start a new preschool program in the assigned field location.
