Early Childhood Education, AA (EDEC.AA)

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 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 completion of the program students will be able to:

1. Plan meaningful and engaging curriculum that uses developmentally appropriate practices, and that supports each domain of learning outlined in early learning and development standards. (2,3,4,5,6)
2. Implement a broad range of developmentally appropriate instructional strategies that consider children’s unique characteristics and needs. (2, 3, 4, 5, 6)
3. Implement appropriate assessment techniques that evaluate children’s development and learning and align with developmental milestones in cognitive, physical, and social emotional domains. (3, 4, 5, 6)
4. Design learning environments using knowledge of children’s unique characteristics and developmental needs that foster engagement, encourage exploration, and promote play-based learning experiences. (3, 4, 5)
5. Create collaborative partnerships with families and communities using effective communication methods while fostering an inclusive environment that respects and values diversity. (2, 3, 4, 6)
6. ​Employ professional and ethical practices that ensure health, safety, and nutrition and promote the well-being of diverse populations. (2, 3, 4, 5)