Curriculum In Early Childhood Education: Teaching the Whole Child
What is curriculum for young children?
A particular approach or model that guides the program
Developmentally Appropriate Activites
Theories of Development
Constructivist Theory
John B. Watson
Behavorist Theory
Jean Piaget: Swiss Epistemologist
Selection & Organization of ECC
The Unit and Thematic Approach
The most familiar approach which is often referred to as "Traditional" early childhood curriculum.
Bank Street Approach
Subtopic
Emergent Curriculum
Teacher guidance but more of the children's interest.
Reggio Emilia
Teachers observations and dialogues with students. Teachers are considered the children partners in learning.
Project Approach (American Interpretation)
Research effort that is focused on finding answers to questions about a topic either by child, teacher or both. Similiar to Reggio Emilia approach.
Roots of Early Childhood Curriculum
Kindergarten
Founder of Kindergarten
Nursery School
Progressive Education
John Dewey: Spokesperson for Progressive Education
European Programs
Maria Montessor 1870-1952
Child centered based on scientific observations of children.
Rudolf Steiner 1861-1925
Understanding of human development that addresses the needs of the growing child. Child
Both Montessori and Waldorf empahsize the education of the whole child which includes a rich variety of art, music, dance and theater.
Purpose of ECC
Cultural values
Tradionalists
Efficient acquisition of knowledge and skills
Behavorists Theory
Preparation for participation in a democratic society
Believes in Dewey philosophy.
Creating a more just and equitable society
Anti-bias curriculum developed by Louis Derman Sparks and others.