PROGRAMS
Early Childhood Education/Teacher Assistant

Accreditation of program and Certifications attained during program

                           
Course Content

ECE–1013     INTRODUCTION TO EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION
This course gives students an understanding of the early childhood education field. The components of children, families, play, environments, facilitator, partnerships, and quality will be examined in detail. Program variety, issues in the field, and child care regulations will also be discussed, giving students a general overview of what is required to work in this specialized field.

ECE–1016     INTERPERSONAL RELATIONS
This course will introduce students to the principles and practices of the human relationship. Students will have the opportunity to integrate theory and skills development as they begin to recognize the process of human interaction. Giving and receiving feedback, assertiveness, self-esteem, and conflict resolution are among the special topics covered. Focus will be placed on self-exploration and experiential learning.

ECE–1011     INFANTS & TODDLERS
Working with infants and toddlers requires a specialized skill set, which will be introduced in this course of study. From birth to age two is a time of rapid development, and consistent care, observation, and responsiveness to their needs is required to ensure the foundation is set for all future learning. The many milestones that are reached during the first two years will be examined, and students will learn how to plan programming appropriate to support children in all areas of development.

ECE–1062     HEALTH
Healthy practices are essential in the early childhood field, and during this course of intensive study, students will learn what health-promotion is, how to do self-care while working in a demanding profession, and ways to prevent and manage illness. The many safety concerns involving young children will be discussed, including childhood injuries, prevention of abuse, and environmental dangers. Eating habits and food preparation will also be studied, giving students the opportunity to learn how to ensure proper nutrition for children of all ages.

ECE–1012     PRESCHOOLERS
The preschool years are a time of extreme creativity. The value of supporting and encouraging play, strategies for enhancing children’s self-expression, and the ways to ensure an appropriate early childhood education experience for 2 to 5 year olds will be studied. Students will have the opportunity to lean to plan programming, organize the environment, and design interest centers, which are essential skills in working with preschool children.

ECE–1015     CHILD GUIDANCE
This course allows students to gain an understanding of guiding young children to choose appropriate behaviors for themselves, while using natural consequences and reasonable expectations to lead them toward greater self-control. Prevention of unacceptable behavior, reinforcement of prosocial behavior, and methods of assisting children in attaining self-discipline will be examined. The impact of caregiving styles, direct, and indirect discipline strategies, and classroom management will give students an appreciation of the role they play in appropriate guidance for young children

ECE–1017     SCHOOL-AGE CHILDREN
School-Age children are at a unique period of development, struggling to gain independence, while maintaining the security of being a child. Students will study the developmental issues that are unfolding, while learning to program plan, support, and care for the varying ages and stages inherent in this diverse group.

ECE–1018     ART & CREATIVITY
Upon completion of this course, students will explore their won creative and expressive abilities in order to relate, and develop opportunities for children to express theirs. A definition of creativity, various mediums and modes of expression, and the value of artistic display will be examined in detail.

ECE–1014     OBSERVATION & ASSESSMENT
Observation and assessment are critical skills when working with young children. Caregivers must practice systematic, objective observation of the children in their care to ensure programming and activities meet all individual needs. Students will gain an understanding of the importance of observation and assessment, what methods of observation can be used, and how to use the data obtained in order to accurately assess a child’s needs.

ECE–1007     CHILDREN, FAMILY, AND COMMUNITY
Children are a product of their family and community, and it is essential for caregivers to offer support to the child, as well as their parents in their role of primary caregivers. Students will gain an understanding of the diverse family constellations, as well as the characteristics of dysfunctional families and the variables that can put children at risk. When forming a partnership, students will learn to respect the needs of families, and how best to communicate with and involve families. The community supports and resources available will also be examined.

ECE–1037     CHILD DEVELOPMENT
Upon completion of this course, the student will have an overall view of the study of human development, learning about the transition from conception to birth, and the many milestones that cross the life span until age twelve. Physical, cognitive, linguistic, social, and emotional development will be examined, giving students an understanding of the factors that influence each, and an appreciation of the importance of early foundational support.

ECE–1019     INCLUSIVE EDUCATION
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to offer children with special needs the best possible chance for holistic development in a normal living environment. In cooperation with parents and professional, they will be able to develop, apply and evaluate integrated program plans that will stimulate the children to achieve their development potential and attain the objectives as part of the inclusion process.

ECE–1032     INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS
This course provides students with basic computer knowledge and will allow students to identify the basic components of a computer system, demonstrate basic disk management skills, and perform basic word processing operations.

ECE–1018     BUSINESS OF A DAYCARE
This course is designed to make the student aware of the business and legal requirements for starting a daycare as a business. The students learn the legal steps in incorporating a company in New Brunswick and registering a business name. Students study the provincial regulations for daycare setup and operation. Sources of funding for business startups are presented to the students and each student prepares a business plan to support an application for a business loan.

ECE–1040     FIRST AID & CPR/WHMIS
Provide the students with the knowledge and skills required to assess injuring and render first aid. Work place safety skills will also be taught. Provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to interpret and apply the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) Regulation under the Occupational Health and Safety Act.

ECE–1043     NON-VIOLENT CRISIS INTERVENTION and SUICIDE PREVENTION
To provide student the opportunity to interact and intervene with others who may be assaultive or violent in a safe and non-threatening manner. This course will provide students with theoretical knowledge and practical skills for managing crisis situations when in the field. Students will learn intervention methods and safe practices through lectures and certifications.  Students will be certified by Living Works and receive Crisis Prevention and Suicide Intervention certificates

ECE–1044     OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY
Provide students with the knowledge of the New Brunswick Workplace Health, Safety, and Compensation objectives, this course helps to prevent accidents and illnesses and to improve health and safety condition in New Brunswick workplaces.

ECE–1019     BEHAVIOR MODIFICATION
The purpose of this course is to introduce the student to a wide variety of applied behavioral techniques used to modify behavior. The course will assist the student in observing behavior in an objective and analytical manner. Classical and operant conditioning theories and procedures will be emphasized in a practical manner. In addition, observational learning and cognitive-behavioral procedures will be explored. Effectiveness of treatment procedures and ethical issues will be discussed throughout the course.

ECE–1021     ADMINISTRATION OF A CHILD CARE CENTRE
Upon completion of this course, students will have a greater understanding of the administrative practices that are necessary for a successful daycare operation. The many roles and responsibilities of directors will be discussed, allowing students to better grasp the position and its function. The role of advocacy and professional practice will also be reviewed, giving students the knowledge necessary to lobby for change in a vital, but under appreciated, field.

ECE–1020     PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & ACCOUNTABILITY
This course will give students a background in professional conduct in early childhood and allow them to develop the skills necessary to be accountable in their chosen profession. They will have the opportunity to discuss industry standards, ethics, advocacy, and portfolio development, allowing them to enter the field prepared for the important role they will play.

ECE–1020     FIELD PLACEMENT
Students will have the opportunity to put their theoretical knowledge into practical use during their field placement. With appropriate supervision and guidance, they will manage the daily activities of an educator in this field, and will take on the duties and responsibilities that come with the position, giving them an accurate understanding and appreciation of their chosen profession.