Early Childhood Education prepares students for teaching and other careers working with young children and their families.
AREA OF EMPHASIS AT DELAWARE
Early Childhood Education (ECE) is a major that leads to the Bachelor of Science degree in the College of Human Services, Education and Public Policy. The major is designed for students who plan on working with young children in school, child care, or family and institutional settings. The National Association for the Education of Young Children has endorsed the program as meeting all of its standards for teacher preparation. The certification allows students to pursue careers as teachers or as early interventionists with young exceptional children. The emphasis of the program is developmental, with students learning how to match instructional strategies and materials to children's social, cognitive, and physical characteristics. The program further emphasizes partnerships with families of young children. Course work in early childhood education is designed to give a strong background in typical development and the development of young children with disabilities, as well as knowledge of curriculum materials and methods and practicum experience with young children. Qualified students may further enhance their program by pursuing Honors options and may earn an Honors degree in this major.
