EDUCATION The Early Childhood Education Program at Mount Wachusett Community College provides students with the opportunity to earn an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education Career Degree or Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education-Transfer Degree. The Elementary Education Track provides students with the opportunity to earn an Associate Degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences. Upon completion of a program, students are prepared for positions in early child care and educational settings. During the course of study, students will develop skills and competencies in early childhood philosophy and theory. Students will gain knowledge in the growth and development of young children, curriculum and program and environmental planning. Please click here for MassTransfer information (http://www.mass.edu/masstransfer) EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION CAREER DEGREE (ECC) In addition to attending to children s basic needs, early childhood education professionals organize activities that stimulate children s physical, emotional, intellectual, and social growth. They help children explore interests, develop independence, foster creativity, build self-esteem, and learn how to behave with others. MWCC s program will prepare you to begin a career working with children ages 0-5. Benefits of MWCC s program include a great job placement rate (90 percent of students find jobs), the option of both day and evening classes, day classes scheduled conveniently for parents of school-age children, opportunities to gain real world experience, and many excellent, local practicum sites. Year ECE 0 Introduction To Early Childhood Education ENG 0 College Writing I PSY 05 Introduction To Psychology BIO 0 Human Health And Disease SOC 206 Marriage And The Family ENG 02 College Writing II PSY 08 Child Development SPC Speech (formerly THE) MAT 40 Elements Of Mathematics I CIS 27 Computer Technologies Year 2 ECE 4 Early Childhood Education Practicum I 4 PSY 244 Children With Special Needs ECE 02 Early Childhood Curriculum And Program Planning ENG 25 Children's Literature ECE 05, 2, or 250 Credits Child Care Administration (or Applying Theories of Curriculum or Observation and Assessment in Early Childhood) ECE 24 Early Childhood Education Practicum II 4 ECE 4 Guiding Children's Behavior ECE 260 Leadership In Education Seminar ECE 0 Home, School, And Community Relations ECE 04 Infant And Toddler Development And Curriculum Total Credits: 62 ECE 250 Observation and Assessment in Early Childhood Is recommended for transfer to Fitchburg State University Birth-8 program. See Education program competencies and technical standards
State certification After completing the degree, students can apply for Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) Lead Teacher certification. Lead Teachers must be age 2 or over (those under 2 can receive Teacher certification). EEC certification indicates that students are qualified to work in childcare facilities. Helpful hints To meet Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) requirements, students should attain First Aid certification. Childcare facilities are required to have one CPR certified professional always present, therefore, students who attain certification will be even more marketable. Transfer options For transfer options, please click here. (http://catalog.mwcc.edu/academicresources/#transferinformationtext) It is recommended that you also consult with your academic advisor. Special requirements Technical standards must be met with or without accommodations. Career options/earning potential For career options, please click here. (https://mwcc.emsicareercoach.com/#action=loadsearchresults&search=early+childhood +education&searchtype=occupation) EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION TRANSFER DEGREE (ECT) This program satisfies the requirements of the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education -Early Childhood Education Transfer Compact for transfer to a state college or university bachelor degree program (nursery school to grade 2). Preschool, kindergarten, and elementary school teachers play a vital role in the development of children, introducing them to numbers, language, science, and social studies. They facilitate student learning through interactive class discussions, educational activities, "hands-on" learning, and one-on-one assistance. The need for qualified teachers continues to grow because of retirements, increasing student numbers, and demands for smaller class sizes. Benefits of MWCC s program include: day, evening, and distance learning options; day classes scheduled conveniently for parents of school-age children; opportunities to gain real world experience; and a strong liberal arts & sciences curriculum for more effective transfer. Year ECE 0 Introduction To Early Childhood Education ENG 0 College Writing I PSY 05 Introduction To Psychology BIO 09, EAS 5, or EAS 25 Biology I (or Biogeology: History of Life or Physical Geology of the Earth) 4 MAT 40 Elements Of Mathematics I ENG 02 College Writing II PSY 08 Child Development ECE 0 Home, School, And Community Relations MAT 4 Statistics 4 Year 2 ECE 02 Early Childhood Curriculum And Program Planning SPC Speech (formerly THE) ECE 4 Early Childhood Education Practicum I 4 ART 09, 0, MUS 0, or HUM 260 Art History I (or Art History II or Music Skills and Theory I or The Art of Being Human) HIS 20 History of United States I PHY 0 or 05 Introduction To Physical Science (or College Physics I) 4 ENG 25 Children's Literature ECE 24 Early Childhood Education Practicum II 4 HIS 05 or 06 History Of World Civilization I (or History of World Civilization II) Credits 2 rev. 2/6
PSY 244 Children With Special Needs Total Credits: 62 HUM 260 recommended for transfer to Fitchburg State University. See Education program competencies and technical standards. Transfer options For transfer options, please click here. (http://catalog.mwcc.edu/academicresources/#transferinformationtext) It is recommended that you also consult with your academic advisor. MASSTRANSFER Students who plan to transfer to a Massachusetts state university or a University of Massachusetts campus may be eligible to transfer under the MassTransfer agreement which provides transfer advantages to those who qualify. Please click here for MassTransfer information (http://www.mass.edu/masstransfer) Special requirements Satisfactory completion of the Communication and Literacy (CLST) section of the Mass Tests of Educator Licensure (MTEL) is required for transfer into a four-year educational program prior to entrance to junior-level courses. The exam is not a prerequisite to enter MWCC's program. Technical standards must be met with or without accommodations. Career options/earning potential For career options, please click here. (https://mwcc.emsicareercoach.com/#action=loadsearchresults&search=early+childhood +education&searchtype=occupation) Elementary Education Track (LAEL) A Degree in Liberal Arts and Science This program satisfies the requirements of the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education Elementary Education Transfer Compact for transfer to a state college or university bachelor degree program. Elementary school teachers play a vital role in the development of children, introducing them to numbers, language, science, and social studies. They facilitate student learning through interactive class discussions, educational activities, "hands-on" learning, and one-on-one assistance. The need for qualified teachers continues to grow because of retirements, increasing student numbers, and demands for smaller class sizes. The Liberal Arts and Sciences includes the MassTransfer Block. Please click here for MassTransfer information (http://www.mass.edu/masstransfer) Year HIS 05 or 06 History Of World Civilization I (or Introduction to World Civilization II) ENG 0 College Writing I PSY 05 Introduction To Psychology BIO 09 Biology I 4 CIS 27 Computer Technologies ENG 02 College Writing II EDU 0 Introduction To Education EAS 5, 25, or PHY 0 Biogeology: History Of Life (or Physical Geology of the Earth or Introduction to Physical Science) SPC Speech (formerly THE) MAT 40 Elements Of Mathematics I Year 2 ENG 25 Children's Literature HIS 20 or 202 History of United States I (or History of United States II) PER 26 or 0 Fitness And Wellness 2- PSY 08 or 0 Child Development (or Human Growth and Development) World Language or Culturally Diverse Elective (see list below) Credits 4
MAT 4 Statistics (or higher) 2 4 ENG 290 LAS Capstone: Advanced Writing and Research ART 09, 0, or MUS 0 Art History I (or Art History II or Music Skills and Theory I) World Language or Culturally Diverse Elective (see list below) General Elective Total Credits: 62-6 2 PER 0 Health, Fitness, And Wellness is recommended for transfer Select courses to fulfill requirements for the intended academic major at the four-year college to which you plan to transfer General Electives: See General Electives (http://catalog.mwcc.edu/associatedegreesandcertificatelistandotheroptions/ #electivecoursesbyabbreviationtext) exceptions. World Language or Culturally Diverse Elective Credits ASL - Any American Sign Language course ANT Cultural Anthropology ART 09 Art History I ART 0 Art History II ART 25 Two-Dimensional Design ART 252 Three-Dimensional Design ART 259 Ceramics I ART 26 Drawing I DAN Hip Hop/Street Dance Foundation ENG 22 Women's Literature ENG 26 Modern Drama ENG 27 Special Topics: Queer American Drama ENG 26 The Short Story ENG 265 Great Writers of Harlem FRE - Any French course GEO 29 World And Cultural Geography HIS 05 History Of World Civilization I HIS 06 History Of World Civilization II HIS 25 American Ethnic History HST 50 Cultural Awareness HUM 240 Comparative Religion HUM 260 The Art Of Being Human I MUS 06 History Of Jazz MUS 60 History of Rock and Roll PHL 20 Introduction To Philosophical Issues PHL 20 Levels Of Being 4 rev. 2/6
PHL 250 Ethics SOC 0 Introduction To Sociology SOC 25 Gender Issues SOC 205 Social Problems SPA - Any Spanish course See Education program competencies and technical standards. Helpful hints Students should consult with a transfer advisor early to ensure that they choose a combination of liberal arts and education courses that transfer to the four-year college or university of their choice. Transfer options For transfer options, please click here. (http://catalog.mwcc.edu/academicresources/#transferinformationtext) It is recommended that you also consult with your academic advisor. MASSTRANSFER Students who plan to transfer to a Massachusetts state university or a University of Massachusetts campus may be eligible to transfer under the MassTransfer agreement which provides transfer advantages to those who qualify. Please click here for MassTransfer information (http://www.mass.edu/masstransfer) Special requirements Most four-year colleges and universities (including all Mass public institutions) require satisfactory completion of the Communication and Literacy section of the MA Tests of Educator Licensure (MTEL) prior to entrance to junior-level courses. The exam is NOT a prerequisite to enter MWCC's program. Students may be able to transfer into bachelor degree education programs, but may not be able to take upper-level education courses until they pass the exam. Technical standards must be met with or without accommodations. Career options/earning potential For career options, please click here. (https://mwcc.emsicareercoach.com/#action=loadsearchresults&search=elementary +education&searchtype=occupation) PROGRAM COMPETENCIES FOR ECC AND ECT Upon graduation from these programs, students shall have demonstrated the ability to: Create an environment that is healthy, respectful, supportive, and challenging for each child. Design, implement, and evaluate experiences that promote positive development and learning for every young child. Demonstrate an understanding of the importance of developmental domains and content in early childhood curriculum. Demonstrate experience in using developmentally effective approaches based on children s ages, characteristics, and culture. Explain and analyze the importance of creating respectful, reciprocal relationships that support and involve families in their children s development and learning. Demonstrate skill and knowledge in child observation, documentation, and effective assessment strategies that positively influence the development of children. Conduct themselves as members of the early childhood profession, upholding ethical guidelines and professional standards related to early childhood practice. Show ability to be reflective learners who integrate knowledge from a variety of sources. Engage in informed advocacy for children and the early childhood profession. PROGRAM COMPETENCIES FOR LAEL Upon graduation from this program, students shall have the ability to: 5
Formulate clear and precise questions about complex problems and ideas relevant to a variety of disciplines math, science, the humanities, and the social sciences and gather, assess, and interpret information to arrive at well-reasoned conclusions and solutions. Demonstrate an understanding of complex written texts that demand an appreciation of subtext, irony, metaphor, and the subtlety and nuances of language. Successfully complete a substantial research paper that demonstrates the ability to formulate a research question, conduct research using the library s databases, and synthesize information from a variety of sources into a cohesive and in-depth analysis of a topic. Demonstrate knowledge of historic, social, and cultural backgrounds necessary for understanding their own and other societies with an emphasis on important ideas and events that have shaped, and continue to shape, their world. Demonstrate scientific literacy, which can be defined as the matrix of knowledge needed to understand enough about the universe to deal with issues that come across the horizon of the average citizen, in the news or elsewhere. Demonstrate a broad exposure to, and an understanding of, the differences and similarities in the various academic disciplines within their Liberal Arts education. Successfully transfer to a baccalaureate degree granting institution if desired, with the proper educational foundation for transition into a chosen field of study. 6 rev. 2/6
CAPSTONE COURSE FOR LAEL ENG 290 LAS Capstone: Advanced Writing and Research is the required capstone course for some Liberal Arts & Sciences majors and is to be taken after successfully completing ENG 02 College Writing II and 45 credits. TECHNICAL STANDARDS FOR ECC AND ECT For general information about technical standards and accommodation, see Technical Standards. (http://catalog.mwcc.edu/ academicresources/academicandgradingpolicies/technicalstandards) Students entering these programs must be able to demonstrate the ability to: Comprehend textbook material at the th grade level. Communicate and assimilate information either in spoken, printed, signed, or computer voice format. Gather, analyze, and draw conclusions from data. Lift a child up to 50 pounds to safety or for assistance. Stand for extended periods of time up to one hour, stoop, bend and get up and down from a floor sitting position. Use small muscle dexterity necessary to do such tasks as preparing meals and diapering. Work as part of a team, as in team teaching or parent meetings. Exhibit social skills appropriate to professional interactions and in accordance with early childhood standards. Communicate clearly with children and respond immediately and appropriately. Identify at-risk behavior that might endanger the safety of a child, peers and/or staff during instructional, social or recreational activities. Identify situations when a child is in distress or exhibiting behaviors that endanger their safety by reacting in an appropriate and timely manner. Remain calm, rational, decisive, and in control at all times, especially during emergency and alarm situations. Function without causing harm to self or others if under the influence of prescription or over-the-counter medications. TECHNICAL STANDARDS FOR LAEL For general information about technical standards and accommodation, see Technical Standards. (http://catalog.mwcc.edu/ academicresources/academicandgradingpolicies/technicalstandards) Students entering these programs must be able to demonstrate the ability to: Comprehend textbook material at the th grade level. Communicate and assimilate information either in spoken, printed, signed, or computer voice format. Gather, analyze, and draw conclusions from data. 7
Courses ECE 0. Introduction To Early Childhood Education. Credits. This course is an introduction to the field of early childhood. It studies the foundations, history, philosophy, ethics, the role of the teacher, and the changing needs of children in a variety of settings. This course will address licensing regulations, state and national standards and how they impact on the social, emotional, and intellectual growth of the child. A 6-hour field experience is required for all ECT (transfer) students only, in order to meet the new Massachusetts Early Childhood Transfer Compact. Students participating in field experiences must undergo a Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) check. Prerequisites: ENG 098, FYE 0, RDG 098, or placement. ECE 02. Early Childhood Curriculum And Program Planning. Credits. This course surveys the theory and methods needed in developing, planning and maintaining an interesting, comprehensive curriculum/program for preschool children. Particular attention is given to developmental theory and the integration of State standards and licensing guidelines into the curriculum. Students gain skills in working with, understanding, and meeting the needs of all young children. Various curriculum areas involving language, science, math, social studies, music, art, literacy, and drama are emphasized, along with understanding the importance of play, and of planning the development of children s' social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development. Students also develop plans for cultural diversity and explore strategies for including families in the program. Prerequisite: PSY 08 (or corequisite) or permission of division dean. A passing grade is 'C' or better. ECE 0. Home, School, And Community Relations. Credits. This course will examine the role of teacher and parent in the development, care, and education of young children. Special emphasis will be placed on improving communication skills in order to create more effective positive relationships among parents, teachers, and other professionals. Students will explore attitudes and communication styles that inhibit or enhance communication. Topics include understanding parents' roles, trends influencing families, characteristics of effective and ineffective communication, encouraging both direct and indirect parent involvement in the classroom and the community, cultural diversity, and working with parents in special situations, i.e., special needs, divorce, single parenting, and abusive parents. An advocacy component will be included to help students develop a vehicle for speaking out for children, families, and early childhood education. Prerequisites: ENG 098, FYE 0, RDG 098, or placement. ECE 04. Infant And Toddler Development And Curriculum. Credits. This course is designed to give students information on physical, cognitive, language, and social-emotional development from birth to three years, as it relates to early childhood education. Students will become familiar with developmentally appropriate practices in infant and toddler care settings with regards to such areas as environment, care giving, and curriculum. Specific topics, such as children with special needs, parent-child interactions, and parent-teacher communications, will also be included. Prerequisite: PSY 08.. ECE 05. Child Care Administration. Credits. This course examines the organization, planning, and the administering of various types of early childhood programs. Emphasis will be placed on the responsibility of the director to provide a quality program through thoughtful planning, sound fiscal management skills, and interpersonal relationships, while meeting State standards and guidelines and State licensing regulations. Topics included in the course will be funding, budgeting, evaluating, hiring, collecting fees, writing reports, and communication skills. Prerequisite: Lead Teacher Certified or permission of division dean. ECE 4. Early Childhood Education Practicum I. 4 Credits. This course provides students with practical experience (50 hours each) working with children in an early childhood setting under faculty supervision. Competencies emphasized include working as a team member, developing, implementing and evaluating appropriate activities for young children; demonstrating positive guidance and communication strategies, keeping children safe and healthy; and creating and maintaining a developmentally appropriate inclusive learning environment. Students will develop confidence and sense of professionalism while reflecting on their teaching skills. Passing grade of C or better. Prerequisites: ECE 02 (or co-requisite), PSY 08 or permission of division dean. Students must be matriculated in the ECC or ECT degree programs. Students participating in a practicum must undergo a Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) check. ECE 24. Early Childhood Education Practicum II. 4 Credits. This course provides students with practical experience (50 hours each) working with children in an early childhood setting under faculty supervision. Competencies emphasized include working as a team member, developing, implementing and evaluating appropriate activities for young children; demonstrating positive guidance and communication strategies, keeping children safe and healthy; and creating and maintaining a developmentally appropriate inclusive learning environment. Students will develop confidence and a sense of professionalism while reflecting on their teaching skills. Passing grade is C or better. Prerequisites: ECE 4; permission of division dean. Students must be matriculated in the ECC or ECT degree programs. Students participating in a practicum must undergo a Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) check. 8 rev. 2/6
ECE 2. Applying Theories Of Curriculum. Credits. This course will explore and analyze current trends, theories, and standards of curriculum in early childhood education. Emphasis will be placed on the Massachusetts Early Childhood Program Standards and Preschool Learning Guidelines and the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) program standards. Students will gain a more in-depth understanding of inquiry-based teaching that reviews the value of play and the importance of cultural diversity. Prerequisites: ECE 02, PSY 08. ECE 4. Guiding Children's Behavior. Credits. This course helps students examine and interpret young children's behavior. Students will examine a variety of positive approaches to discipline and study how materials, environment, scheduling, appropriate speech and action all contribute to children's behavior. Students will learn effective techniques to guide children toward cooperation and positive productive interactions with others, and develop realistic expectations of young children according to each child's developmental level. Attention is given to special accommodations designed to meet the needs of all children. Prerequisite: PSY 08 or division dean.. ECE 250. Observation and Assessment in Early Childhood. Credits. This course examines observation and assessment of children from birth through eight years. Formal and informal tools will be discussed with an emphasis on the connection between effective observation and documentation in collecting information regarding children's development and learning. Focus will be on the appropriate use of integrating assessments and teaching in a variety of early childhood settings. The Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) regulations and National Standards will be reviewed. Prerequisite: PSY 08. ECE 260. Leadership In Education Seminar. Credits. In this capstone course, students analyze and articulate themes in educational leadership demonstrating their mastery of the content of completed required early childhood courses within their degree. The focus will be for students to examine their own roles in the leadership process in their work with the care and education of young children and their families. Students will study professional ethics using the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) Code of Ethical Conduct. Prerequisites: ECE 0, ECE 02, ECE 0, ENG 02, PSY 08, PSY 244. Co-requisite: ECE 4, ECE 24. 9