Overview
The Education Professions Capstone provides an extended opportunity for field experience through placement in local preschool and elementary schools. Students spend three days each week applying concepts that have been presented throughout the pathway. Students study the physical, social, emotional, cognitive, and moral development of children from conception to age twelve. Theories of child development, biological and environmental foundations, prenatal development, the birth process, and the newborn baby will be discussed. Additionally, students will explore the aspects of early literacy skill development in young children from birth through third grade. Students will explore techniques, technological tools and other learning opportunities that encourage positive attitudes in children regarding listening, speaking, reading and writing activities. In the course, students will research, examine and explore the use of observation in screening and assessment to promote healthy literacy development in early childhood education. Finally, students will be provided an introduction to caring for each exceptional child. This includes theories and practices for producing optimal developmental growth. Students complete a portfolio project to document their experiences in the classroom.
Next Steps
Upon completing the Early Childhood Education program, students are prepared for multiple pathways. Many choose to continue their education in 2- and 4-year postsecondary programs in early childhood education, elementary education, or human development. Students may also enter the workforce directly after high school, working in childcare centers, preschools, Head Start programs, or as teaching assistants in elementary classrooms. Others use this program as a foundation to pursue careers in social services, counseling, or related fields where knowledge of child development is critical.
Dual College Credits & Industry Certifications
Partnerships are being explored to create opportunities for students to earn dual credit and industry certifications.
Student Evaluation
After the completion of two years in the program, students are evaluated on technical and essential skills. The Technical Skills Evaluation documents the Early Childhood Education skills learned. The Essential Skills Evaluation documents the workplace skills all WCC students learn. The documents were developed by WCC teachers, in cooperation with business partners and industry advisory committees, and are updated each year.
Early Childhood Education Technical Skills Evaluation – Under development
