The Early Childhood Education Center (ECEC) program is based on the theories of Jean Piaget, Eric Erikson, Arnold Gesell, J.A. Smith, & Lev Vygotsky and is developmental interactionist in nature.
Piagetian theory reveals that learning is an active process in which children explore and interact with their environment and where children learn through concrete, hands-on experiences. The theory also supports the view that children develop in a fixed sequence of stages but at individual rates. Intellectual as the process of “sinking down taps into development is fostered by social interaction with peers and with adults who help children become autonomous through problem solving and decision-making experiences. Thus, children are encouraged to explore their environment through a planned program that includes self-selected activities.
Ericksonian theory provides the basis for an environment to support young children and the building of their trust, autonomy, and initiative. The Early Childhood Education Center’s daily schedule and physical environment are planned to promote independence or autonomy in children. Developmentally appropriate activities are planned to encourage children to think for themselves and to trust their judgment. Respect for the integrity of the children’s work is communicated by allowing their work to be the primary aesthetic focus in the classroom.
Gesellian theory provides the basis for the physical development of young children. Thus, in the Early Childhood Education Center curriculum, physical activities are sequenced from the simple to the complex throughout the year. Each activity is planned to allow for individual differences also.
J. A. Smith defines creativity our past experiences and putting these selected experiences together into new patterns, new ideas, or new products.” To enhance creativity in young children, the Early Childhood Education Center fosters self-expression in children by using self-expressive materials and activities such as clay, paint, and dance, by allowing children to express themselves through play, and by allowing children the freedom to express their thoughts verbally to peers and to adult facilitators.
Therefore, the curriculum of the Louisiana Tech University Early Childhood Education Center is based on these basic assumptions.
1. Play is essential for all children and is the natural way children learn.
2. Children learn best through actual experiences and active involvement.
3. Children learn best in an accepting and non-threatening environment.
4. Even though children pass through identical stages each child is unique
and individual differences must be respected and encouraged.
5. As educators we must be concerned with children’s total development-
emotional, social, cognitive, physical, and creative. The emotional and social development is especially important because children must feel good about themselves and be able to get along with others.
6. Curriculum grows out of the personal interests of the children.
7. Children engage in decision-making.
8. Children’s verbal expressions are valued.
9. Teachers assume a facilitating role rather than a directive role.
10. Emphasis should be on the process rather than the product.
11. Experiences should enhance self-esteem.
12. Activities should preserve and enhance understanding of cultural group norms.
13. More than one solution is possible, and there are various levels of success possible.
The Louisiana Tech University ECEC is a research laboratory for students and faculty that provides a learning environment that supports children to develop skills necessary to construct their own knowledge and prepare them for their next school environment. Our mission at the Louisiana Tech University ECEC is to offer a high-quality childcare program while serving as a model for the community. The inclusion of academic and research components will ensure the provision of an optimum environment for the growth and development of children.
VISION
For Parents to feel good about their childcare choice, knowing their children are safe, engaged, educated, and smiling. We want these children to look back at their experiences with us at the ECEC and see it as a cherished part of their childhood.