General Information

• Name: Special Topics in Child Development
• Discipline: Early Childhood Education (ECE)
• Units (Credits): 1–6
• Schedule History: See when this course was offered over the last three years.
• Transfer Information: Courses with numbers 100 to 299: This course is designed to apply toward a WNC degree and/or transfer to other schools within the Nevada System of Higher Education, depending on the degree chosen and other courses completed. It may transfer to colleges and universities outside Nevada. For information about how this course can transfer and apply to your program of study, please contact a counselor.
• Academic Division: Social Science, Education, Humanities & Public Service
• Prerequisites: None

Course Outline

I: Catalog Course Description

Studies issues related to child development and early childhood education.
Note: Non-transferable for an NSHE baccalaureate degree. Non-applicable towards an AA or AS Degree.

II: Course Objectives

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• Identify major concepts of issues discussed related to child development and early care and education.
• Apply concepts to working with young children.

III: Course Linkage

Linkage of course to educational program mission and at least one educational program outcome.

This course will include one or more of the following Early Childhood Education Outcomes:

• Know the subject matter appropriate to Early Childhood Education.
• Recognize and organize a physical environment that supports age appropriate development in young children.
• Plan and implement activities that meet the psychosocial, physical and cognitive needs of children in a child care setting.
• Develop strategies for maintaining a safe and healthy child care environment.
• Organize and implement developmentally appropriate environments and curriculum for young children.
• Demonstrate supervisory and administrative skills including lead teaching, budgeting and the development of parent/teacher relationships.
• Meet current educational criteria for employment in publicly funded early childhood programs.
• Be aware of community child and family service agencies in the community.
• Develop an appreciation of the importance of advocating for child and family related issues at the community and legislative level.
• Develop an appreciation for the benefits of participation in early childhood professional organizations.

Linkage to General Education Mission and Outcomes
Students who complete this course are expected to demonstrate they:

• have college-level skills in reading, writing and oral communication appropriate to their degree and/or emphasis.
• can use appropriate college-level mathematical skills.
• have problem solving, critical and creative thinking skills.
• have effective and efficient learning skills, including computer skills.
• know the basic principles and processes of government at the local, state, national and international levels.
• understand the methods of science and the role of science and technology in the modern world.
• understand and apply social science principles, including an appreciation of participation in civic affairs.
• have an understanding of fine arts or performing arts.
• understand the importance of cultural traditions, diversity, and ethics in the modern world.