CHD-234: Preschool Curriculum-Practicum (2018-2019)

Prepares students to teach in various types of preschool programs and apply knowledge gained from the Inquiry Based Preschool Curriculum course. This 45 clock hour practicum is to be taken concurrently with the corresponding section of CHD-231.

Under guided supervision, students will demonstrate developmentally appropriate early childhood teaching competencies. Students will use their knowledge of inquiry based curriculum to plan developmentally appropriate lessons. Child centered, play oriented approaches to teaching, learning, assessment, and knowledge of curriculum content areas will be emphasized as students design, implement, and evaluate experiences that promote positive development and learning for preschool children. Integrated curriculum across domains is aligned with the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) Childhood Standards of Quality for Pre-K.

The following MDE Standards of Quality will be covered in this course: Language Development, Literacy, Mathematics, Science, Creative Arts, Social-Emotional Development, Approaches to Learning, and Physical Health and Development. Students seeking the Preschool CDA Certification may use the completed 45 practicum hours to help fulfill the required 480 hours working with preschool children (ages 3-5).

*The following documents must be provided before starting this practicum: Department of Human Services (DHS) Clearance; Tuberculosis (TB) test record (must be in the last 12 months); Identification (valid driver’s license or State ID); and a HFC student ID card. Some programs may request an immunization, a physical exam and an ICHAT (Criminal Background Check).

The following NAEYC Associate Degree Standards are met by this course at the understanding or application level:

1. Promoting Child Development and Learning:

• 1c: Using developmental knowledge to create healthy, respectful, supportive, and challenging learning environments for young children.

2. Building Family and Community Relationships:

• 2c: Involving families and communities in young children's development and learning.

4. Using Effective Approaches to Connect with Children and Families:

• 4c: Using broad repertoire of developmentally appropriate teaching/learning approaches.
• 4d: Reflecting on own practice to promote positive outcomes for each child.

5. Using Content Knowledge to Build Meaningful Curriculum:

• 5b: Knowing and using the central concepts, inquiry tools, and structures of content areas or academic disciplines.
• 5c: Using own knowledge, appropriate early learning standards, and other resources to design, implement, and evaluate developmentally meaningful and challenging curriculum for each child.

7. Early Childhood Experiences

• 7a: Opportunities to observe and practice in at least two of the three early childhood age groups (birth - age 3, 3-5, 5-8).
• 7b: Opportunities to observe and practice in at least two of the three main types of early education settings (early school grades, child care centers and homes, Head Start programs).