Core Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the M.Ed. in Early Childhood Education, a graduate will be able to:

• Apply reflective practice including reflection on the role of practitioner-research in action research.
• Analyze various theories of play and their connection to teaching practice with a focus on multiple domains of learning and development.
• Analyze early childhood learning environments in relationship to the influences of physical space, community building, the outdoors, and curriculum development.
• Compare and contrast leadership theories and models as related to early childhood professionals, and reflect on personal teaching and leadership practices based on these theories and models to create personal leadership goals within teaching or administration.
• Advocate for young children and their families through appropriate application of current models, theories, and methods for supporting families and children in early childhood contexts, including supporting diversity.
• Describe, evaluate, and apply themes, models, and methods that form the basis of early intervention and early childhood special education practice.
• Compare and contrast methods for the observation, description and documentation of young children’s development, and their implications for planning individual learning experiences.
• Apply discipline specific research methods.