ECE 251 : Teaching Practicum I and Seminar I

Students select to work with either infants and toddlers or preschool children in inclusive settings that are approved by the Department of Early Education and Childcare (DEEC). The group day care services are staffed by a Lead Teacher. During this period, the student demonstrates his/her ability to work as a team member and to develop, implement and evaluate developmentally appropriate activities for small groups of infants/toddlers or preschool children. Students develop important qualities and skills, including the ability to initiate and expand responsive communications with children and to interact in ways that help develop mutuality and trust. The accompanying seminar provides a forum for students to share reflections, raise questions, and extend their understanding of the teacher's responsibility. This student-internship is supervised by college faculty. Note: C.O.R.I., S.O.R.I., and Health Requirements must be met, and students must meet with the Program Coordinator the semester prior to enrollment in ECE 251. Required: 150 hours of field experience per semester, orientation, and seven two-hour seminars per semester on alternating weeks. Prerequisites: Please note different requirements for different early education settings. Infant-Toddler setting: Pre or co-requisite(s): ECE 113 and ECE 224; or ECE 113, ECE 223 and ECE 236. Preschool setting: Pre or co-requisite: ECE 113, ECE 222, and ECE 234. Instructional Support Fee applies. Gen. Ed. Competencies Met: Oral Communication.
1. Apply knowledge of developmental theory into teaching practice. 2. Design learning activities in the context of developmental appropriateness and cultural relevance. 3. Plan curriculum to meet individual needs and abilities of all learners. 4. Evaluate the classroom as a learning environment for all children and recommended changes to make the classroom a high-quality learning environment. 5. Operate the classroom with assistance following the procedures, policies, and practices as outlined by state regulations. 6. Assess individual teaching practice, set-up of the physical environment, and curriculum implementation.