The DCE Basic ECE total program hours are 1032; this includes designated practicum and observation hours and observation and writing workshops.

Writing Workshop

This Saturday workshop acts as a review of some practical aspects of writing an essay and as a refresher for those who may not have written course-related essays for some time. Topics include essay forms, along with tips on strengthening writing style and proper citation.

Reflective Writing Workshop – YEAR II students ONLY

This Saturday workshop will focus on reflective practices and writing. The goal is to provide students with the skills and tools to be successful in the final year of class and PII and PIII. Students will be challenged to think deeper and to analyse this thinking.

Observation Workshop

Children have many ways of expressing themselves and we can begin to understand what they are experiencing and the meaning they bring to their experiences by observing them, listening to them and ultimately documenting these observations. These observations help you create a more responsive program for each child. One Saturday workshop introduces you to the reasons for observing children; methods of recording and documentation. Learners will practice techniques and develop skills for observing, recording, documentation, and interpretation.

 ECE 106 – Interpersonal Skills

On a daily basis, childcare providers work with families and resource people. This course is designed to allow students to learn more about themselves, increase their communication skills, and develop a rich group experience.

ECE 101, 102, 104 – Child Growth and Development I, II and III

The courses focus on looking at the history and nature of child study and theory as well as human development from conception through to adolescence with a focus on the preschool years.

ECE 101 – Foundations of Early Childhood Education

This is an introductory course to the field of Early Childhood Education. This course explains basic terminology and provides an overview of different types of programs for children and families. It also addresses licensing standards for childcare centres in British Columbia. This course offers a broad overview of major historical and contemporary events and influences which shape early childhood approaches and programs.

ECE 103 – The Learning Child

The course focuses on the role of the adult in creating lifelong relationships, establishing responsive environments and the value of learning through play.

 ECE 105, 200 – Guiding and Caring I and II

The role of the adult in guidance and the fostering of well-being are the core of Guiding and Caring.  Guiding and Caring I focuses on a child centered approach to guiding children. Guiding and Caring II examines a non-bias approach as well as strategies in working with children who display challenging behaviour.

ECE 201, 202, 203 – Curriculum

The focus of curriculum courses is responding to children’s interests and planning curriculum experiences based those interests within an inclusive environment. Curriculum areas covered are Science, Social Studies, Math, Language and Literature, Music and Movement, and Art.

ECE 204 – Health, Safety and Nutrition

The focus of this course is on providing and maintaining a healthy and safe environment.

ECE 205 – Family, School and Community Relations

This course offers an examination of professional development, emphasizing interpersonal communication and working with families, colleagues and the community.

ECE 110, 111, 112, 210, 211, 212 – Observation Assignments

Observation is often seen as one of the most simple, yet effective methods of assessing and interpreting young children’s interests and how they are learning in their day-to-day activities and quiet times.  “Careful observation means paying attention. Early childhood educators should be noticing what children are doing, saying, exploring and what they are concerned about” (Understanding the Early Learning Framework; From Theory to Practice, p. 12). These assignments provide students with the practice of methods of observing, recording, interpreting, documenting ordinary moments.

ECE 120, 220, 250 – Block Practicum

Block Practicum is the opportunity to put theory into action. During Practicum placements, students will be working in licensed child care facilities with experienced early childhood educators.

Regarding Practicum Placements: Many mentor centres require proof of vaccination to enter the childcare facility.  Since many centres require proof of vaccination, disclosure prior to practicum placement will be far less disruptive to both centre and student. We ask students who are not vaccinated to make themselves known in confidence to the practicum coordinator so that appropriate placements can be made. Students must follow the centre’s policies and procedures and safety protocols while at any mentor centre during a practicum and/or observation visit.