Child Development - Emphasis in Early Childhood and Elementary Teacher Preparation (Pre-Professional)

Program Code: SAC.CDEPT.AA

Program Control Number: 08743

Former Title: Child Development - Emphasis in Preschool Age Care and Development

The Associate in Arts in Child Development - Emphasis in Early Childhood and Elementary Teacher Preparation (Pre-Professional) prepares students for transfer to a four-year university to obtain a bachelor's degree and into a PK-3 Early Childhood Education (ECE) Specialist Instruction Credential program and/or a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential program, while providing students with knowledge about the comprehensive development of early childhood and elementary school age children. Students will focus on understanding developmentally appropriate practice, effective learning strategies, and creating and implementing a high-quality classroom environment for children. The practicum component of the program will support the students as they transfer their learning to their work with young children. The courses are part of the curriculum that can be started at the community college and completed at the university. The curriculum is designed for students who seek the pre-professional subject matter preparation for early childhood and elementary school teaching consistent with the standards established by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. Additionally, the degree curriculum may serve as preparation for paraprofessional positions in the PK-12 classroom by satisfying unit requirements established by law.

Learning Outcome(s):

1. Demonstrate knowledge of early childhood curriculum, program practices, and the development of young children.