Program Description The early childhood education sector is evolving to address the growing recognition of the importance of early learning. This has resulted in a need to develop, implement and create sustainable community-based family support systems and programs in early learning. Hand-in-hand with this is the ongoing need to provide quality programs for young children within a variety of educational settings.
The Bachelor of Early Learning and Community Development program prepares learners through a comprehensive pedagogical approach that seeks to find a balance between solid theoretical and practical knowledge of the early learning field, which encompasses both curriculum delivery and community development. Learners develop a solid understanding of child development, curriculum design, working with diverse populations, community development, and the importance of the natural environment to children. Learners develop skills in analysis and problem solving to optimize their ability to assess community and family needs; create and support early learning in diverse settings; coordinate with teams to deliver projects; conduct and analyze research; and to assume leadership positions in the early learning sector.
The field placements and work term provide for learning in real world environments. The work term also provides learners with opportunities to work in environments that require increased levels of scientific inquiry, organizational, communication, and leadership skills for the attainment of program learning outcomes and the development of student projects. Applied in-class projects, in addition to work experience, helps learners develop the theoretical and practical skills that this evolving sector demands.
Finally, this comprehensive program prepares graduates to pursue further academic study in fields related to early learning and community development, including Teachers' College.
