General Information

• Name: Diversity and the Young Child - A Multicultural Perspective
• Discipline: Human Development & Family Studies (HDFS)
• Units (Credits): 3
• 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

Considers the development of young children from the prenatal period through age 8, focusing on diversity among children. Diversity will be explored in cultural, ethnic and linguistic variations as well as differences in ability and typical/atypical development. Students will seek to understand development and its cultural variations so that teaching young children will be more effective, empathic and aware. This course will explore the many ways of growing up and the worldwide diversity of that process.

II: Course Objectives

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Define cultural diversity.
• Establish why early childhood teachers need to be aware of cultural diversity issues.
• Define how culture shapes a child's life.
• Define the "family" and it's structure.
• Discuss the historical issues of multicultural education.
• Examine models for multicultural education including, curriculum and environmental design.
• Define the characteristics of an early childhood multicultural educator.
• Describe the roles of families and the community in a multicultural program.

III: Course Linkage

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

This course is offered as a possible choice of related Early Childhood Education credits of which 6 are required for the A.A.S. Degree. It is designed to allow students to meet the program outcome of knowing the subject matter appropriate to Early Childhood Education. Students will also demonstrate the ability to organize and implement developmentally appropriate environments and curriculum that supports diversity in young children.
Linkage to General Education Mission and Outcomes
Students who complete this course are expected to demonstrate they:

Communication
• have college-level skills in reading, writing and oral communication appropriate to their degree and/or emphasis.

Analysis
• have effective and efficient learning skills, including the location and evaluation of information.
• have problem solving, critical and creative thinking skills.

Personal Development
• Work effectively with others.

Community Commitment
• know the basic principles and processes of government at the local, state, national and international levels.
• understand the importance of cultural traditions, diversity, and ethics in the modern world.