Early Childhood Curriculum: A Constructivist Perspective

Early Childhood Curriculumexamines curricular goals such as autonomy, development, and problem solving and links those goals with constructivist principles of learning. The text integrates learning principles with curricular goals, curricular tasks, and teaching strategies. It explores ways teachers can create meaningful learning environments and choose curriculum tasks appropriately#xE2;#xAC;#x1D;in reading, writing, speaking, math#xE2;#xAC;#x1D;that are linked to the learning and development needs of young children. The text provides a wealth of practical detail about integrating constructivist curriculum in early childhood education classrooms. Authors discuss the classroom climate and management, room design, play, and cooperative learning as overarching learning strategies. The text also promotes professional responsibility by examining the early childhood educator's role with community agencies, reform and legal mandates, and public relations. Unlike many competing texts, Early Childhood Curriculumcompletely integrates curriculum with learning principles, representing true-to-the-spirit implementation of developmentally appropriate practice. It also provides a wealth of practical detail about integrating constructivist curriculum in preschool and early elementary classrooms. The constructivist format of this book encourages active involvement on the part of readers by asking them to observe, question, reflect, research, and analyze. This approach allows readers to create their own knowledge through their responses and actions. Special Features Include: Curriculum Strategies highlight models for developing curriculum, including projects, curricular alignment, integration of various subject matter areas, and types of knowledge. Ask Yourself boxes require the reader to reflect on issues as they relate to the reader's own experiences. The questions in this feature can prompt journal writing or class discussions on issues in early curriculum. Constructions promote problem solving by allowing students to explore, revisit, examine, and learn from first-hand experience. Multiple Perspectives from the Field are interviews with teachers and other early childhood professionals that offer students a realistic look at the profession from a diverse group of educators. Teacher Dialogue explore a wide range of student concerns within the context of the early education preparation program. They explore children, curriculum, learning environments, assessment, and documentation, representing a collaborative support group for pre-service teachers and readers. Companion Website with an instructor#xE2;#xAC;"s guide, additional readings and links, activities, and templates for downloads offer a wealth of resources for both the instructor and student.