Explores diversity and social justice issues influencing educational settings. Students will examine in depth the historical and current impact of children's, teachers', and families' cultural, social, and political context in schools. Was formerly known as ECED 235, Educating Young Children in a Diverse Society: Diversity.

Introduces the foundation for explaining how children develop in all domains, conception through early adolescence. Explores various developmental theories, methods for documenting growth, and impact of brain development.

Examines the principles and theories promoting social competence in young children. Introduces creating safe learning environments, developing skills promoting effective interactions, providing positive individual guidance, and enhancing group experiences.

Introduces skills to provide developmentally appropriate and culturally relevant activities/care for children ages 5-12 in a variety of settings.

Examines how teachers integrate into education programs the family and community contexts in which a child develops. Explores cultures and demographics of families, community resources, strategies for involving families in the education of their child, and tools for effective communication.

Introduces the history, philosophy, principles, issues, and trends in American education. Provides opportunities for observations of educational models and exploration for career paths. Requires 30 hours of supervised practicum. This course was formerly known as EDUC& 205, Introduction to Education w/Field Experience.

Introduces recognition and identification of exceptionality in children from birth through high school. Explores policies and regulations concerning state and federal provisions of special education and related services, as well as adaptations for serving students with special needs in general education classrooms. Requires 10 hours of observation time outside of class hours.