Academic Catalog 2024-2025

Slippery Rock University

Early Childhood Education (PK-4), Bachelor of Science in Education (BSED)

All candidates completing this program and student teaching are eligible to receive Pennsylvania certification after achieving a passing or qualifying score on Pennsylvania Department of Education required exam(s). If you are interested in teaching in another state, please contact the Department of Education in that state.

PROGRAM LEARNING OUTCOMES

PROGRAM GOAL 1 Danielson Framework 1b: Demonstrating Knowledge of Students: Child and adolescent development; Learning process; Special needs; Students’ skills, knowledge, and language proficiency; Students’ interests and cultural heritage

  • University Wide Outcome 2: Apply critical thinking to argument and problem solving: Gather, analyze and evaluate information and ideas. Produce well-supported reasons and evidence. Reach well-argued conclusions and decisions. Use a variety of viewpoints and reflective thought.

PROGRAM GOAL 2 Danielson Framework 1c: Setting Instructional Outcomes: Value, sequence, and alignment; Clarity; Balance; Suitability for diverse learners

  • University Wide Outcome 2: Apply critical thinking to argument and problem solving: Gather, analyze and evaluate information and ideas. Produce well-supported reasons and evidence. Reach well-argued conclusions and decisions. Use a variety of viewpoints and reflective thought.

PROGRAM GOAL 3 Danielson Framework 1d: Demonstrate Knowledge of Resources: Resources for Classroom Use; Resources to Extend Content Knowledge and Pedagogy; Resources for Students

  • University Wide Outcome 2: Apply critical thinking to argument and problem solving: Gather, analyze and evaluate information and ideas. Produce well-supported reasons and evidence. Reach well-argued conclusions and decisions. Use a variety of viewpoints and reflective thought.

PROGRAM GOAL 4 Danielson Framework 3a: Communicate with Students: Expectations for Learning; Directions and Procedures; Explanations of Content; Use of Oral and Written Language

  • University Wide Outcome 1. Act as effective communicators: Communicate successfully with diverse audiences in speech and writing. Demonstrate active listening skills. Apply analytical reading to support language use.
  • University Wide Outcome 9. Develop a worldview that acknowledges diversity and global interdependence: Understand the importance of diverse experiences, cultures, and identities. Understand the ways that group and individual inequalities and interactions impact self and society. Apply multiple perspectives to address local, regional, global, and cultural issues.

PROGRAM GOAL 5 Danielson Framework 3c: Engage Students in Learning: Activities and Assignments; Grouping of Students, Instructional Materials and Resources; Structure and Pacing

  • Middle States Standards III.5.a: Offer a sufficient scope to draw students into new areas of intellectual experience, expanding their cultural and global awareness and cultural sensitivity, and preparing them to make well-reasoned judgments outside as well as within their academic field
  • University Wide Outcome 9. Develop a worldview that acknowledges diversity and global interdependence: Understand the importance of diverse experiences, cultures, and identities.Understand the ways that group and individual inequalities and interactions impact self and society. Apply multiple perspectives to address local, regional, global, and cultural issues.

PROGRAM GOAL 6 Danielson Framework 4e Growing and Developing Professionally: Enhancement and Content Knowledge and Pedagogical Skills, Receptivity to Feedback from Colleagues, Service to the Profession

  • Middle States Standards II.2: Foster a climate of respect among students, faculty, staff, and administration from a range of diverse backgrounds, ideas, and perspectives
  • University Wide Outcome 5. Develop as a whole person: Acquire and apply knowledge and skills in the major and profession, including soft skills. Make connections beyond traditional disciplinary boundaries. Demonstrate a desire for lifelong learning. Establish an identity that incorporates emotional and physical wellness.

PROGRAM GOAL 7 Danielson Framework 4f: Demonstrating Professionalism: Integrity and Ethical Conduct, Service to Students, Advocacy, Decision Making

  • University Wide Outcome 8. Act ethically: Respect the range of ethical perspectives.Understand their own values and principles. Recognize the consequences and impacts of their actions on others.

Related Links

Early Childhood Education, BSED Program Page

 

Professional Licensure/Certification Page

Curriculum Guide

GPA Requirement

GPA must be 3.0 or higher for Teacher Candidacy.

A 3.0 GPA and passing subject area assessment (PECT) or a 2.8 GPA and a qualifying passing subject area assessment (PECT) score (as determined by PDE) is required for certification.

Summary*

Rock Studies 2 Requirements42
Other Basic Requirements0-3
Major Requirements70
Electives13

* All undergraduate degree programs require a minimum of 120 credits.  Some courses meet multiple requirements, but are only counted once toward the 120 credit total required to graduate.

Rock Studies 2 Requirements

The Rock
SUBJ 139Foundations of Academic Discovery 13
ENGL 102Critical Writing3
ENGL 104Critical Reading3
MATH 210Mathematics for Elementary Teachers I3
Select one of the following:3
Civil Discourse: Theory & Practice
Ethics and Civil Discourse
Civil Discourse and Democracy
Subtotal15
Integrated Inquiry
Creative and Aesthetic Inquiry
Select 3 Credits3
Humanities Inquiry
Select 3 Credits3
Social Science Inquiry
Select 3 Credits3
Natural Sciences Inquiry
SCI 101Science of Life3
Physical Sciences Inquiry
SCI 102Understanding the Physical World3
Subtotal15
Additional Rock Studies 2 Requirements (12 credits)
MATH 310Mathematics for Elementary Teachers II3
PE 243Educational Movement in Health & Wellness3
or DANC 223 Creative Dance for Children
SOWK 105Human Diversity3
SPED 121Overview of Special Education3
Total Hours42
1

Course offered in multiple subjects; cannot take course in first major subject.

Basic Math Requirement

Check with your adviser or a current degree audit report to see if you have been exempted from this course. The credit earned in this course will not be counted toward the 120 credit hour minimum needed to earn a degree.

Complete one of the following:0-3
Meet required minimum SAT or ACT math score OR
Beginning Algebra
Total Hours0-3

DIVERSITY,  EQUITY,  AND INCLUSION REQUIREMENT

Students must take and pass a course with the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) designation prior to graduation.  Students can meet this requirement by taking any DEI - designated course in any program at any time during their undergraduate career. 

Major Requirements

  • 35 major credits must be taken at SRU or PASSHE
  • 35 major credits must be taken at the 300 level or above
Early Childhood Education Courses
(Prior to Admittance into Teacher Candidacy Program)
ELEC 100Early Childhood Education Theory & Practice 13
ELEC 200Child Development Typical 13
PE 243Educational Movement in Health & Wellness 13
or DANC 223 Creative Dance for Children
SPED 121Overview of Special Education 13
Subtotal12
Diversity Block 2
ELEC 230Field-Based Child Development Typical 13
ELEC 237ELL Strategies and Practice for Early Childhood Education 13
ELEC 281Family and Community Diversity and Partnerships 13
Subtotal9
Early Literacy Block 2
ELEC 238Literacy Practices for the Emergent Learner, PK-1 13
ELEC 285Integrating Creative Expression through the Arts 13
Subtotal6
Early Childhood Major Courses
Must be admitted to Teacher Candidacy Program and have completed both Diversity and Literacy blocks above
Block 1
ELEC 311Mathematics & Literacy Teaching Lab Pre K - 4 11
ELEC 316Developmental Formal and Informal Assessments 13
ELEC 330Literacy Practices for the Developing Learner, Grades 2 - 4 13
ELEC 340Mathematics Methods and Strategies for PRE K - 4 Teachers 13
SPED 350Universal Intervention 13
Subtotal13
Block 2 3
ELEC 420Early Childhood Field Experience 13
ELEC 460Instructional Strategies for Science and Technology 13
ELEC 470Social Studies & Citizenship 13
ELEC 480Assessment for Differentiation of Literacy Instruction 13
SPED 360Targeted Instructional and Behavioral Interventions for Neuro-Diverse Learners 13
Subtotal15
Other Required Coursework for Graduation
ELEC 348Leadership, Advocacy & Program Development 13
ELEC 455Student Teaching: Early Childhood 112
or ELEC 475 International Student Teaching: Early Childhood
Subtotal15
Total Hours70
1

Course counts for 50% of Major requirements but not for Major GPA

2

Pre-requisite ELEC 100 & ELEC 200.

3

Pre-req is Block 1

*

Some courses may require pre-requisites. Please see course descriptions to determine if there are any pre-requisites for that specific course.

Co-curricular and Experiential Learning

Students are encouraged to explore additional curricular and co-curricular opportunities. There is a strong correlation between long-term student success and participation in the following types of programs and activities:

  1. International study programs
  2. High-Impact Practice (HIP) designated classes
  3. Student-Faculty research and Student Leadership development
  4. Career Education and Development
  5. Internships/Field Experiences (required)

Important Information

Prerequisites for Admission to Teacher Candidacy

  • Grades below a “C” are not admissible.
Basic Courses
ELEC 100Early Childhood Education Theory & Practice3
ELEC 200Child Development Typical3
ELEC 230Field-Based Child Development Typical3
ENGL 102Critical Writing3
ENGL 104Critical Reading3
Math Requirement for BS in Education
Prior to Admission to Teacher Candidacy
MATH 210Mathematics for Elementary Teachers I3
MATH 310Mathematics for Elementary Teachers II3
Total Hours21

BSED Early Childhood PK-4 Grade Requirement

  • Grades in each of the following courses must be “C” or better to qualify for Student Teaching and/or Graduation
ELEC 100Early Childhood Education Theory & Practice3
ELEC 200Child Development Typical3
ELEC 230Field-Based Child Development Typical3
ELEC 237ELL Strategies and Practice for Early Childhood Education3
ELEC 238Literacy Practices for the Emergent Learner, PK-13
ELEC 281Family and Community Diversity and Partnerships3
ELEC 285Integrating Creative Expression through the Arts3
ELEC 311Mathematics & Literacy Teaching Lab Pre K - 41
ELEC 316Developmental Formal and Informal Assessments3
ELEC 330Literacy Practices for the Developing Learner, Grades 2 - 43
ELEC 340Mathematics Methods and Strategies for PRE K - 4 Teachers3
ELEC 348Leadership, Advocacy & Program Development3
ELEC 420Early Childhood Field Experience3
ELEC 455Student Teaching: Early Childhood12
ELEC 460Instructional Strategies for Science and Technology3
ELEC 470Social Studies & Citizenship3
ELEC 480Assessment for Differentiation of Literacy Instruction3
PE 243Educational Movement in Health & Wellness3
or DANC 223 Creative Dance for Children
SPED 121Overview of Special Education3
SPED 350Universal Intervention3
SPED 360Targeted Instructional and Behavioral Interventions for Neuro-Diverse Learners3

Important Curriculum Guide Notes

This Curriculum Guide is provided to help SRU students and prospective students better understand their intended major curriculum. Enrolled SRU students should note that the My Rock Audit may place already-earned and/or in progress courses in different, yet valid, curriculum categories. Enrolled SRU students should use the My Rock Audit Report and materials and information provided by their faculty advisers to ensure accurate progress towards degree completion. The information on this guide is current as of the date listed. Students are responsible for curriculum requirements at the time of enrollment at the University.

PASSHE - Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education Institutions

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION - BSED (1100)
Pre K-4 Certification
This program is effective as of Fall 2021.
Revised 07.02.2024
UCC 03.02.2021 

Recommended Four-Year Plan

Plan of Study Grid
First Year
FallHours
ELEC 100 Early Childhood Education Theory & Practice 3
ENGL 102 Critical Writing 3
ESAP 101 FYRST Seminar * 1
SCI 101 Science of Life 3
SPED 121 Overview of Special Education 3
SUBJ 139Foundations of Academic Discovery 1 3
 Hours16
Spring
ELEC 200 Child Development Typical 3
ENGL 104 Critical Reading 3
MATH 210 Mathematics for Elementary Teachers I 3
SCI 102 Understanding the Physical World 3
Creative & Aesthetic Inquiry 3
 Hours15
Second Year
Fall
Diversity Block
ELEC 230 Field-Based Child Development Typical 3
ELEC 237 ELL Strategies and Practice for Early Childhood Education 3
ELEC 281 Family and Community Diversity and Partnerships 3
MATH 310 Mathematics for Elementary Teachers II 3
Humanities Inquiry 3
 Hours15
Spring
Early Literacy Block
Select one of the following: 3
Civil Discourse: Theory & Practice
Ethics and Civil Discourse
Civil Discourse and Democracy
ELEC 238 Literacy Practices for the Emergent Learner, PK-1 3
ELEC 285 Integrating Creative Expression through the Arts 3
PE 243
Educational Movement in Health & Wellness
or Creative Dance for Children
3
Social Science Inquiry 3
 Hours15
Third Year
Fall
ELEC 348 Leadership, Advocacy & Program Development 3
SOWK 105 Human Diversity 3
Free Elective 9
 Hours15
Spring
Block 1
ELEC 311 Mathematics & Literacy Teaching Lab Pre K - 4 1
ELEC 316 Developmental Formal and Informal Assessments 3
ELEC 330 Literacy Practices for the Developing Learner, Grades 2 - 4 3
ELEC 340 Mathematics Methods and Strategies for PRE K - 4 Teachers 3
SPED 350 Universal Intervention 3
Free Elective 3
 Hours16
Fourth Year
Fall
Block 2
ELEC 420 Early Childhood Field Experience 3
ELEC 460 Instructional Strategies for Science and Technology 3
ELEC 470 Social Studies & Citizenship 3
ELEC 480 Assessment for Differentiation of Literacy Instruction 3
SPED 360 Targeted Instructional and Behavioral Interventions for Neuro-Diverse Learners 3
 Hours15
Spring
ELEC 455 Student Teaching: Early Childhood 12
Free Elective 1
 Hours13
 Total Hours**120
1

Course offered in multiple subjects; cannot take course in first major subject

*

Students are encouraged to take ESAP 101 as a Free Elective.

Major Code: 1100
Revised 01.13.2021

** This document is meant to serve as a guide. Some planners may show more than 120 credits because faculty have created flexibility in choosing courses.  However, only 120 credits are required to obtain a degree. Please consult with your academic adviser and refer to your curriculum guide prior to registering for courses. This plan should be reviewed, and verified, by you and your academic adviser at least once each academic year.