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Early Childhood Education

Associate of Applied Science Degree Program

Catalog Year 2008-09

MHCC Faculty Advisors:
Ellen White: 503-491-6985 - Room EC 22 Ellen.White@mhcc.edu

The Early Childhood Education program prepares students to work with children from birth through school age in both public and private school settings. This program is designed for persons of all ages and backgrounds, with special attention given to individual student needs and abilities. A two-year program leading to an associate degree is available. Graduates are trained to work in a variety of educational and child-care settings, including nursery school, pre-school, day care, private kindergarten, and as para-professionals in the public schools. Course work and practical work experience emphasize knowledge of normal growth and development, guidance skills with young children, and the planning and directing of activities for children which foster positive intellectual, social, emotional and physical growth and development.

Program Outcomes

At the completion of this program, the student should be able to:

• demonstrate an exemplary work ethic and uphold the standards of the profession
• use positive guidance strategies to promote children’s development
• manage a classroom using Developmentally Appropriate Practices and all relevant guidelines
• provide a learning environment designed to promote children’s optimal development in all domains with emphasis on secure relations, self-efficacy and flexible thinking
• develop positive relationships with families and community to best support each child’s optimal development

Enrollment in the early childhood classes is open to all interested students, whether attending school full- or part-time. However, only a limited number of practicum opportunities is available and enrollment in this aspect of the program is available only with consent of the program faculty. Many of the courses are also excellent for parents and others who work with young children.

With or without accommodation, students must fulfill the program competencies for practicum experiences with young children. The safety and well-being of children is always of primary importance. Certificate and degree candidates should anticipate practicum settings with physical, emotional and mental challenges. Students with questions about the nature of the program should arrange for an individual appointment with a program adviser.

Early Childhood Education options include certificate and AAS programs. Consult ECE program advisers regarding your individual needs.

Please check the MHCC website for any curricular changes that have occurred since the catalog was published.

1 E CE140 may be taken Fall or Winter; ECE150 may be taken Winter or Spring; ECE146 may be taken Fall or Winter.
2 E CE156 and WE 280CDC must be taken concurrently. Level I seminar and co-op may be taken Fall or Winter term. Level II seminar and co-op may be taken Winter or Spring term.
3 Students may not use demonstrated proficiency on the College Placement Test (CPT) to satisfy this requirement.

Students must successfully complete 1st year classes/certificate coursework prior to admission to 2nd year classes. Program advisers will determine individual eligibility

‡See pages 7-10 of the printed catalog.