The Associate in Arts (AA), Early Childhood Education provides the first two years of a four-year curriculum in early childhood education. Students study child development, curriculum design and development theory and practice in the education of young children, and the intersections of family, community, and childhood learning and development. Students who earn the AA, Early Childhood Education may work in early childhood settings and programs as early childhood educators and teacher assistants. Upon completion of the Bachelor of Arts in Education, student may work as teachers of children from birth to third grade. The AA, Early Childhood Education is the first step on the path for students seeking an Arizona Education Department teacher certification.
Note: For a course to be eligible for transfer, the student must receive a C or better. Acceptance of a transfer course is determined by the receiving institution.
Individuals seeking The Child Development Association certificate can complete ECE 111, ECE 112, ECE 113, ECE 114, ECE 115, ECE 116, ECE 117, ECE 118, and ECE 119 in preparation for the national Child Development Associate (CDA) credential awarded by the Council for Early Childhood Professional Recognition. Note: The CDA credential is not issued by Mohave Community College and must be applied for and paid for separately from this program.
Individuals with a CDA credential may received credit for the three (3) courses ECE 160, ECE 161, and ECE 162 towards earning an Early Childhood Education, AA
Program Student Learning Outcomes: Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:
1. Plan meaningful and challenging curriculum that supports what young children should know and be able to do in each domain of learning as outlined in early learning and development standards. (2, 3, 4, 5, 6)
2. Support positive outcomes for each child based on the application of appropriate assessment tools, including observation. (1, 2, 3, 4)
3. Implement a broad range of developmentally appropriate teaching and learning strategies that consider children’s unique characteristics and needs and are researched-based, culturally sensitive, and respectful of families. (2, 3, 4, 5, 6)
4. Create healthy, respectful, supportive, and challenging learning environments using knowledge of children’s unique characteristics and needs and the multiple factors that influence their early development and learning. (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6)
5. Build effective relationships with families and children using their knowledge of family systems, culture, and community. (1, 2, 3, 4)
6. Model appropriate communication skills (verbal, written, technology-based) that enhance relationships in professional settings and when engaging with families and community partners in education. (2, 4, 6)
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