Location:
Various; distance learning format.
Length:
Varies; self-study.
Dates:
September 2018 – Present.
Instructional delivery format:
Learner Outcomes:
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to: discuss the development of play throughout the human life span from a variety of theoretical perspectives; identify types of play based on a variety of forms such as ritual, story-making, games and fairy tales; explore the role of play in human experience; discuss the relationship of play to other aspects of development, such as language, logical-mathematical thinking, social and moral development, spiritual development and creativity; critically reflect upon research and theory on play from the perspective of cultural bias; evaluate personal biases and evidence of collective bias and stereotyping in children’s toys, games, and television programming and commercials and demonstrate how these biases and stereotypes influence children’s play, plan and facilitate play-based learning activities; and construct an understanding of the role of play in counseling and therapy.
Instruction:
This self-study course consists of 15 weekly lessons. The course provides a broad study of the philosophical and social foundations of early childhood education in the United States. Topics include: review of recent research on play and development in the early childhood classroom; various instructional strategies and techniques designed to support a play-centered curriculum in the core curriculum areas; use of play as a form of assessment; and toys and technology that support a play-based curriculum.
Credit recommendation:
In the lower division baccalaureate degree category, 3 semester hours in Early Childhood Education or Education (8/18).