ECE Early Childhood Education Courses at Global Campus

In this course, learners will be introduced to the developmental theories, learning models, issues, and trends that inform quality early childhood education programs and policies, as well as the qualifications, competencies, and professionalism required for different careers in the field. In addition, students will examine developmental domains, assessment, partnership between educators and families, and the relationship between developmentally appropriate practice and learning environments.

Introduction to Early Childhood Behavior Management will address age-appropriate behavioral expectations and the learning environment as a tool for promoting positive and prosocial behavior. Current research and theory related to managing young children’s behavior and strategies for communicating with and involving diverse families to support positive behavioral outcomes will be examined. Learners will apply knowledge of observing, collecting data, and recording children’s behavior to support and address behavioral challenges in the classroom and develop strategies for responding to challenging behavior.

Introduction to Curriculum and Instruction for the Early Childhood Classroom lays the foundation for creating a meaningful curriculum for young learners.  The course focuses on examining the role of early childhood educators in creating, implementing, and assessing curriculum. Learners will evaluate teaching strategies for supporting instruction, apply state and professional standards to curriculum and learning activities, and plan culturally relevant learning opportunities that embrace diversity, inclusivity, equity, and children’s interests. Additionally, learners will design activities for facilitating developmentally appropriate curriculum.

This course examines the principles of child development from birth to age 8. Students will explore the essential aspects of child development, focusing on developmental domains, stages, milestones, and theories. Learners will gain an understanding of environments and activities that nurture the developmental domains of young children. Through observations, students will learn to plan developmentally appropriate instruction tailored to individual needs. The course also emphasizes the critical role of family involvement in supporting the growth and development of children.

Professional Responsibilities in the Early Childhood Environment examines essential competencies that support high‑quality early learning environments through communication, documentation, and collaborative practice. In this course, students will apply professional, ethical, and culturally responsive communication with early childhood stakeholders. Students will also use observation, documentation, and state‑specific early learning standards to guide assessment, planning, and family communication. Additionally, students will analyze ethical dilemmas and legal responsibilities using the NAEYC Code and relevant laws to justify appropriate actions. Students will apply professional resources, documentation practices, and community partnerships to strengthen family and program supports. Finally, students will use leadership and collaboration strategies to evaluate assumptions, build partnerships, and advocate for children, families, and the early childhood profession.

This course examines the role of creative arts in the early childhood curriculum with a focus on supporting young children’s development and self-expression. Students explore how visual arts, music, movement, and dramatic play foster creativity, communication, and meaning-making across content areas. Emphasis is placed on observing and interpreting children’s creative work and designing developmentally appropriate environments that promote engagement and exploration. The course also highlights diverse cultural forms of artistic expression and the thoughtful use of materials and digital tools to enhance creative experiences for all learners, including opportunities to collaborate with families and communities. 

This course will introduce students to strategies that support and encourage the involvement of families in promoting children's health, safety, and nutrition, as well as the importance of establishing a safe and healthy environment that fosters growth and development in young children. Learners will develop educator philosophies that prioritize children’s well-being and design activities that teach children about health, nutrition, and safety.

This course will provide students with a solid foundation of the knowledge, skills, and competencies needed by leaders in the field of early childhood education. The various diverse expectations, responsibilities, and duties of a leader in a high-quality early childhood education program will be explored.  The course will provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the role of the early childhood educator leader in leading a quality early childhood education program. 

This course offers an examination of language development in children from birth to age eight, emphasizing the integration of research-based strategies to support early language and literacy skills. Special focus is placed on creating developmentally appropriate, inclusive, and culturally responsive learning environments that nurture both typical and atypical language learners. Students will explore methods for supporting dual language learners and collaborate with diverse families to promote strong language foundations.

Adolescence is the largest developmental period other than infancy. The purpose of this course is to provide a solid foundation for educators and professionals to be able to critically think about supporting healthy adolescent development. In this course, students will apply key concepts and developmental theories related to the physical, social-emotional, behavioral, and cognitive changes during adolescence.  Students will interpret research on the development of adolescent gender identity, sexuality, and romantic relationships.  Additionally, students will analyze effective practices for communication with adolescents in the context of family and school.  Throughout the course students will analyze the impact of diverse experiences on adolescent development. Lastly, students will propose strategies for supporting adolescents facing mental health and behavioral issues.