Maalot Educational Network | Evaluated Learning Experience
Play and Creative Arts in Early Childhood Education (ECE241)
Classroom: 39 hours (13 weeks); Distance/Hybrid: Varies.
August 2023 - Present.
Upon successful completion of the learning experience, students will be able to: describe the correlation between play and creativity; discuss the theories that provide an evidence base for emphasizing creative arts; identify the teacher's role in optimizing creative potential; explain how children learn through play; identify the developmental sequences for different types of play; explain the concept of 'art as a language' and describe the basic tenets of the Reggio Emilia philosophy; define visual art; explain how process art enhances social and emotional development; describe the ways in which music, movement and dance enhance development; discuss strategies for accommodating diverse learners; explain the theory and research of drama and describe its impact on learning and development; design strategies for teaching and assessing drama; describe theoretical perspectives on identifying talent and giftedness; explain performance assessment and describe how it can be used to facilitate creativity; describe the influence of culture and society on creativity; describe the theory of multiple intelligences and explain how it pertains to teaching creativity to the diverse learner; describe the theories and research that support a creative learning environment; plan appropriate environments for the creative development of all learners; identify age-appropriate materials and list types of materials that enhance a creative learning environment; and explain how technology and media enhance the development of play and creativity.
Major topics include: the correlation between play, creativity and arts-based learning; foundations of creative thought; supporting children's play, games and creativity; promoting children's art; music, movement and dance; drama; assessment; the diverse learner; the creative learning environment; materials and resources; technology and media. Prerequisite: One course in Child Development or Foundations of Early Childhood Education.
In the upper division baccalaureate degree category, 3 semester hours in Education or Early Childhood Education (8/23).