Sophia L.
Student, M. Ed
Knowledge, Application, and Integration of Academic Content in the Early Childhood Curriculum
Early childhood educators have knowledge of the content of the academic disciplines (e.g., language and literacy, the arts, mathematics, social studies, science, technology and engineering, physical education) and of the pedagogical methods for teaching each discipline. They (a) understand the central concepts, methods and tools of inquiry, and structures in each academic discipline. Educators (b) understand pedagogy, including how young children learn and process information in each discipline, the learning trajectories for each discipline, and how teachers use this knowledge to inform their practice. They (c) apply this knowledge using early learning standards and other resources to make decisions about spontaneous and planned learning experiences and about curriculum development, implementation, and evaluation to ensure that learning will be stimulating, challenging, and meaningful to each child.
Key Elements
5a: Understand content knowledge— the central concepts, methods and tools of inquiry, and structure—and resources for the academic disciplines in an early childhood curriculum.
5b: Understand pedagogical content knowledge—how young children learn in each discipline—and how to use the teacher knowledge and practices described in Standards 1 through 4 to support young children’s learning in each content area.
5c: Modify teaching practices by applying, expanding, integrating, and updating their content knowledge in the disciplines, their knowledge of curriculum content resources, and their pedagogical content knowledge.
Evidence & Artifacts
1. EDUC 507 - Progressivism
2. EDUC 507 - Vision Statement
Reflective Connection
5 A. In my article on Progressivism, I demonstrate an understanding of content knowledge across various academic disciplines. Progressivism advocates for interdisciplinary learning, emphasizing the integration of subjects rather than keeping them separate.
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In my vision statement, I demonstrate an understanding of content knowledge across various academic disciplines. Drawing from progressivism, I emphasize hands-on exploration and experiential learning as key components of my teaching philosophy. My approach aligns with the central concepts of language and literacy, the arts, mathematics, science, and social studies, where active engagement and meaningful experiences are essential for learning.
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5 B. Throughout my Vision Statement, I discuss the central concepts and inquiry tools of different academic disciplines, particularly in relation to progressivism and reconstructivism. For example, I emphasize the importance of cultural connections, current events, and real-life experiences in our studies, reflecting the inquiry tools and structures of various disciplines. Additionally, I highlight the role of open discussions in maintaining a democratic relationship between myself and my students, which aligns with the central concepts of social studies and language arts.
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5 C. In the article, I discuss how the principles of Progressivism can be used to design, implement, and evaluate developmentally meaningful and challenging curriculum for each child. By emphasizing flexibility, openness to change, and the integration of subjects, Progressivism advocates for a curriculum that is responsive to students' needs and interests. Additionally, the alignment with Pragmatism and Liberal education views demonstrates an understanding of how to incorporate students' personal experiences and backgrounds into the curriculum to create meaningful learning experiences. This approach encourages me to be flexible and open in their teaching methods, ensuring that the curriculum is relevant and engaging for all students.
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Additionally, in my vision statement, I express a commitment to crafting a dynamic curriculum that can adapt to the evolving interests of my students. By involving students in decision-making processes regarding what and how they learn, I ensure that the curriculum meets their needs and interests, leading to increased retention rates and engagement levels.