ECE 232 - The Arts In Early Childhood

Credits: 5
LEC hours per week: 5
This course addresses the creative arts process in art, drama, literature, music, and movement for students preparing to work with young children. Students will learn to design arts curricula based on developmentally appropriate practice, learning theory and learning standards. Students will be introduced to creative art experiences for young children and activities that assist in the development of a young child’s creativity, and overall development.
Course Outcomes:

Recognize how children develop in the arts and how to foster the creative process.
Describe the components of an appropriate learning environment for arts education.
Design and implement creative arts curricula based on developmentally appropriate practice, learning theory, and learning standards.
Appropriately use basic art materials, techniques and equipment.
Evaluate children’s literature and select books appropriate for developmental levels and interests of young children.
Examine the importance of quality children’s literature on the development of literacy skills, art appreciation and visual literacy.

Course Topics:

Quality children’s literature and authors
Nurturing creativity in children
Integrating arts into the curriculum
Developing arts curriculum
Music and creative development in children
Movement’s role in development
Creating and maintaining a positive learning environment
Children’s literature across the curriculum
Quality Children’s literature and authors
Storytelling
Dramatic arts