Introduction to Early Childhood Education: Analyzing Models to Develop a Personal Program.

Overview & Synopsis

This unit of the Flexible Learning System (FLS) is designed to help adults who work with chilren aged 4-8 clarify and develop their own educational philosophy and its implications for teaching practices in early childhood education. The unit is centered around the analysis of four early childhood education models representing a broad range of contemporary education practices: The Responsive Model; The Open Education Model; The Behavior Analysis Model; and The Engelmann-Becker Model. The unit is designed to be used in conjunction with the EPIE Information Unit, Early Childhood Programs, an audiovisual print package; an overview of the four models is available separately. Learning activities include reading, group discussions, presentations, viewing film strips, observing early childhood programs, and developing and participating in activities. Unit activities are designed to provide information about model programs in early childhood education; clarification of personal values/goals/priorities in working with children; and articulation of a personal model of early childhood education. (Author/SB)