ECE 245 : CDA Portfolio
This course introduces students to the CDA (Child Development Associate Credential) competency standards designated by the Council for Professional Recognition. Students enhance their knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices and curriculum for children birth through age eight. Specific focus includes the six competency goals and thirteen functional areas of the CDA. Emphasis is placed on applying for the CDA and preparing students for the CDA Professional Portfolio, passing the CDA exam and preparation for a PD Specialist visit. Prerequisite: PSY 252, ECE
113, and ECE 234 or ECE 224. Corequisite: ECE work verification from current employer and any verification needed showing up to a minimum of one year at 20 hours a week in an Infant, Toddler, Preschool or Family Child Care setting. Three lecture hours per week. Gen. Ed. Competencies Met: Multicultural and Social Perspectives, Quantitative and Symbolic Reasoning, and Written Communication.
Course Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
1. Analyze the six CDA Competency Goals and thirteen Functional Areas and explain their relationship to developmentally appropriate practices for children from birth through age eight.
2. Design developmentally appropriate curriculum approaches, learning environments, and guidance strategies that align with CDA competency standards across multiple age groups.
3. Apply developmentally appropriate curriculum approaches, learning environments, and guidance strategies that align with CDA competency standards across multiple age groups.
4. Compile documentation that meets CDA Professional Portfolio requirements in accordance with the Council for Professional Recognition guidelines.
5. Demonstrate ethical and professional practices expected of early childhood educators as outlined by the Council for Professional Recognition.
6. Reflect on professional responsibilities and practices related to ethical and reflective early childhood education.