The philosophy of the Early Childhood Education program is one that emphasizes the child in his/her context of family, gender, culture, and community. Because we believe the child is a born learner, teachers must be educated as careful and open-minded observers who develop curriculum with the child in mind. Thus the child is at the center of our program and the first source of study. Our program serves to prepare professional teachers or leaders who will:

1. Encourage the child's natural curiosity and exploration of the environment.
   
2. Develop an under-standing of human diversity and recognize its value in a community of learners.
   
3. Become reflective in their approach to teaching and leadership.
   
4. Develop supportive and productive learning environments for children, teachers, parents, and support staff.
   
5. Integrate knowledge of special needs and impaired children into curriculum and program development.

The focus in this M.S. program is the study of young children (ages 0 to 8). Theory and research can be combined with practical experience.

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