Early Childhood Development: Preschool
Program Overview
Piedmont Virginia Community College's Early Childhood Development: Preschool Certificate Program equips students with the skills and knowledge to work with young children in various settings. The program covers essential areas such as child development, health and safety, curriculum development, and family partnerships. Graduates are prepared for entry-level positions in childcare centers, preschools, and other early childhood settings.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
- Program Type: Career Studies Certificate
- Credit Hours: 18
- Career Pathway: Education & Public Service
- Related Programs: Early Childhood Development: Infant/Toddler, Education
Objectives:
- Prepare students to provide developmentally appropriate learning environments for preschool children.
- Equip students with the knowledge and skills to manage childcare programs effectively.
Program Description:
This certificate program provides students with the necessary skills and knowledge to work with young children in various settings. The program covers several essential areas, including:
- Child Development: Understanding the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development of children from birth to age 8.
- Health, Safety, and Nutrition: Creating and maintaining safe and healthy environments for children.
- Curriculum Development and Implementation: Planning and implementing developmentally appropriate learning activities for young children.
- Observation and Assessment: Observing and documenting children's development to inform individual needs and plan activities accordingly.
- Family and Community Partnerships: Building strong relationships with families and the community to support children's learning and development.
- Professional Development: Continuous learning and reflection to improve teaching practices and stay informed about current research and best practices in early childhood education. This program exceeds the requirements for the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, making graduates fully qualified for any program requiring the CDA as a minimum.
Outline:
Course Requirements:
- CSC 101 - Introduction to Early Childhood Education
- CSC 103 - Child Growth and Development
- CSC 115 - Health, Safety, and Nutrition for Young Children
- CSC 117 - Creative Activities for Young Children
- CSC 123 - Curriculum Development for Young Children
- CSC 125 - Observation and Assessment of Young Children
- CSC 131 - Family and Community Partnerships in Early Childhood Education
- Two Electives: Students can choose two electives from a list of approved courses, depending on their interests and career goals.
Assessment:
- Continuous assessment through various methods, including observations, portfolios, projects, and written assignments.
- Students are also required to complete a comprehensive final project demonstrating their mastery of the program's learning objectives.
Teaching:
- The program utilizes various teaching methods, including lectures, discussions, hands-on activities, observations, and simulations.
- Experienced faculty members with expertise in early childhood education deliver the instruction.
Careers:
- Potential Career Paths: Childcare center teacher, preschool teacher, Head Start teacher, family day care provider, nanny, program manager, early childhood education consultant.
- Employment Opportunities: Childcare centers, preschools, Head Start programs, family day care homes, after-school programs, residential childcare facilities.
- Occupational Objectives: The program prepares graduates for entry-level positions in a variety of early childhood settings. With further education and experience, graduates may pursue leadership roles or become early childhood education specialists.
Other:
- This G3 program may offer students tuition, fees, and books free of charge.
- The program emphasizes ethical and professional standards in early childhood education.
- Graduates are eligible to apply for the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential.
Piedmont Virginia Community College: A Comprehensive Overview
Overview:
Piedmont Virginia Community College (PVCC) is a public two-year institution offering a wide range of academic and workforce development programs. It serves the Charlottesville and Albemarle County area, providing accessible and affordable education to a diverse student population.
Services Offered:
PVCC offers a comprehensive range of services to support student success, including:
Academic Advising:
Personalized guidance on course selection, program planning, and career exploration.Academic Support:
Resources like tutoring, writing center, and academic coaching to enhance learning.Financial Aid:
Assistance with scholarships, grants, loans, and payment plans to make education affordable.Career Services:
Guidance on job searching, resume writing, interview preparation, and internship opportunities.Student Success Services:
Programs and resources to help students navigate college life and achieve their goals.Library:
Access to a vast collection of books, journals, databases, and study spaces.Bookstore:
Purchase textbooks, supplies, and PVCC merchandise.Mental Health Services:
Counseling and support for students' emotional well-being.Veterans Services:
Dedicated support for veterans and their families.Campus Life:
Opportunities for student engagement through clubs, organizations, events, and the student newspaper.Student Life and Campus Experience:
PVCC fosters a welcoming and supportive campus environment. Students can expect:
Active Student Government Association (SGA):
Representing student interests and organizing events.Diverse Student Clubs and Organizations:
Opportunities to connect with peers and explore interests.Civic Engagement Initiatives:
Encouraging students to participate in community service and civic life.Panther Fitness Center:
Access to fitness facilities for student well-being.Campus Safety:
A dedicated campus police department and safety resources for student security.Key Reasons to Study There:
Affordable and Accessible Education:
PVCC offers competitive tuition rates and financial aid options.High-Quality Programs:
PVCC provides a wide range of academic and workforce development programs.Strong Transfer Pathways:
PVCC offers seamless transfer options to four-year universities.Dedicated Faculty and Staff:
PVCC boasts a committed faculty and staff dedicated to student success.Vibrant Campus Community:
PVCC fosters a welcoming and supportive campus environment.Academic Programs:
PVCC offers a variety of academic programs across various disciplines, including:
Humanities, Fine Arts and Social Sciences:
English, History, Art, Music, Psychology, Sociology, and more.Health and Life Sciences:
Nursing, Biology, Medical Assisting, and more.Business, Mathematics, and Technologies:
Business Administration, Accounting, Computer Science, and more.Other:
PVCC also offers:
Distance Learning:
Online courses and programs for flexible learning.Dual Enrollment:
Opportunities for high school students to earn college credit.Early College Program:
A program for high school students to earn college credit and a high school diploma.English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL):
Programs to support English language learners.Workforce Development:
Short-term training programs and customized training for businesses.Community Engagement:
PVCC actively engages with the community through various programs and events.Note:
This summary is based on the provided context and may not include all aspects of PVCC.