Early Learning & Child Care Diploma

Program Details

Program Phone Number

780-623-5561

Program Description

The Early Learning and Child Care Diploma prepares the student to work in a supervisory capacity in children’s programs at the early childhood level (ages 0-12). Emphasis is on the development of knowledgeable and skilled practitioners who can model and lead best practices in early learning and child care. The program course content provides the student with advanced knowledge and skills in the areas of: developmentally appropriate programming strategies for children with diverse abilities and backgrounds; specialized practice in meeting the needs of children with exceptionalities and developmental disabilities; sociology of the Canadian family; building interpersonal relationships with children and their families; professionalism and leadership in the work environment; nurturing child health and wellness; enhanced learning strategies in language and literacy; advanced skills in guiding and managing behavior. The program offers a combination of theoretical instruction and practical learning experiences in an early learning environment.

Credential

Diploma

Admission Requirements

Successful completion of Early Learning and Child Care Certificate from Portage College or another provincial college, college transcripts, Criminal Record Check. Mature students who lack the required academic background may be granted admission based on mature status. Applicants may be required to do an interview with the Program Coordinator and it may be necessary to complete admission testing to assess academic abilities. Students may be required to travel to practicum sites and are responsible for arranging their own transportation, accommodation and child care. Please refer to the following link for minimum technical requirements at our Moodle Site.

Practicum

Varies

Career Potential

Graduates of the Early Learning and Child Care Diploma program are prepared to work effectively with children and their families in preschool programs, daycares, day homes, and other agencies providing services and support to children from birth to age twelve.

Transferability

- Some courses are transferable to the Portage College Educational Assistant Program and to the Disability Studies program. - Transferability to other provincial colleges is available - 60 block credit transfer to Athabasca University BPA program

Program Schedule, Fees & Locations:

Please refer to the link below for current schedule and fees.

Program Schedule & Fees 2011 - 2012

Program Schedule & Fees 2012 - 2013

Course List

• ECDE210 - CHILD HEALTH

  Course ID: ECDE210

  Name: CHILD HEALTH

  Hours: 45

  Credits: 3

  This course is designed to provide basic knowledge and skills in maintaining and enhancing child health and wellness in a safe and nurturing environment. There is specific emphasis on the health needs of children with developmental disabilities.

  
  
• ECEA201 - EARLY CHILDHOOD FOUNDATION

  Course ID: ECEA201

  Name: EARLY CHILDHOOD FOUNDATION

  Hours: 45

  Credits: 3

  This course focuses on the historical perspectives which have contributed to, and have influenced the current philosophies and practices in the early childhood field today. Various contemporary program models are explored with an emphasis on Alberta’s educational system and initiatives.

  
  
• ECEA206 - SOCIOLOGY OF THE FAMILY

  Course ID: ECEA206

  Name: SOCIOLOGY OF THE FAMILY

  Hours: 45

  Credits: 3

  This course provides students with knowledge of family structures, family dynamics, and the various factors that influence growth and development of the family in Canadian society.

  
  
• ECEA209 - CHILDREN WITH EXCEPTIONALITIES

  Course ID: ECEA209

  Name: CHILDREN WITH EXCEPTIONALITIES

  Hours: 45

  Credits: 3

  This course provides students with knowledge of various types of exceptionalities and with skills to assist in developing appropriate programming strategies for children with exceptional needs and abilities. Students will learn appropriate interventions techniques and how to utilize these when working individually with children and in integrated settings. Inclusive education is studied as it relates to Alberta classrooms. This course will provide in depth study of disabilities common in today’s schools including Autism Spectrum Disorder, FASD, and Emotional and Behavioural Disabilities. Specific programming strategies will be pursued.

  
  
• ELCC203 - FIELD PRACTICUM I

  Course ID: ELCC203

  Name: FIELD PRACTICUM I

  Hours: 140

  Credits: 2

  This practicum provides students with experiences in early childhood programs such as daycares, playschools or Head Start Programs. The practicum focuses on the application of increased knowledge of developmentally appropriate programming, child development theory, and effective communication with children. During the practicum, time is designated for an integration seminar at the College.

  
  
• ELCC211 - DEVELOPMENTALLY APPROPRIATE GUIDANCE

  Course ID: ELCC211

  Name: DEVELOPMENTALLY APPROPRIATE GUIDANCE

  Hours: 45

  Credits: 3

  This course will cover the planning and designing of early learning environments and implementing developmentally appropriate guidance. Students will also gain an understanding of management of persistent problem behavior and interacting with diverse families and parents.

  
  
• ELCC212 - EARLY LEARNING CHILD CARE CURRICULUM

  Course ID: ELCC212

  Name: EARLY LEARNING CHILD CARE CURRICULUM

  Hours: 45

  Credits: 3

  This course will cover developmentally appropriate practice, the history of early learning, and planning developmentally appropriate activities. Students will also gain an understanding of guiding language and literacy in diverse families.

  
  
• ELCC215 - INTRODUCTION TO DAYCARE ADMINISTRATION

  Course ID: ELCC215

  Name: INTRODUCTION TO DAYCARE ADMINISTRATION

  Hours: 45

  Credits: 3

  This course pursues issues related to operating a daycare and includes pre-school and daycare licensing regulations, programming regulations, funding regulations, record keeping requirements, and program and staff supervision.

  
  
• ELCC222 - LANGUAGE GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT

  Course ID: ELCC222

  Name: LANGUAGE GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT

  Hours: 45

  Credits: 3

  In this course students learn the role of reading, writing, speaking and listening in early learning. Skills covered include: early language intervention, application of oral language skills, speech strategies, and speech technologies. Students will develop materials and teaching strategies to effectively assist children with speaking and listening.

  
  
• ELCC233 - FIELD PRACTICUM II

  Course ID: ELCC233

  Name: FIELD PRACTICUM II

  Hours: 280

  Credits: 4

  Students are placed in pre-school, daycare programs or other early learning environments where they will assume supervised duties and responsibilities as required by the practicum site. During the practicum, time is designated for an integration seminar at the College.

  
  
• RSER201 - ADVANCED STUDIES IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES

  Course ID: RSER201

  Name: ADVANCED STUDIES IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES

  Hours: 45

  Credits: 3

  This course builds on RSER 101 and focuses on developing a greater understanding and appreciation for the multifaceted aspects of developmental disabilities. This course provides students with knowledge of various types of exceptionalities and with skills to assist in developing appropriate programming strategies for children with exceptional needs and abilities. Students will learn appropriate interventions techniques and how to utilize these when working individually with children and in integrated settings. Inclusive education is studied as it relates to Alberta classrooms.