Program Description
This program is designed for students seeking knowledge and expertise in the field of early childhood development and teaching. The curriculum includes instructional strategies, teaching methodologies, assessment techniques, theories of early childhood growth and development, and the impact of family and cultural diversity on early childhood. All courses are directly aligned with the North Dakota Early Childhood program requirements as defined by the North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board (ESPB). The degree program has embedded practicum experiences throughout the coursework.
Program Outcomes
- The candidate will demonstrate discipline content knowledge, pedagogical and professional knowledge, and skills/dispositions needed to educate all learners through field and practicum experiences.
- The candidate will demonstrate and use formal and informal assessment strategies to evaluate and ensure the continuous development of the diverse learner.
- The candidate will be a reflective thinker who continually evaluates the effects of his/her choices and actions on others and who seeks opportunities to serve the community and grow professionally.
- The candidate will demonstrate knowledge and sensitivity of global cultures/ethnicities, and an awareness of diverse learning styles, with a focus on Ochethi Sakowin culture and language.
- The candidate will demonstrate the ability to integrate tools of instructional and assistive technology into teaching and professional practice.
Career Opportunities
Successful graduates must pass teacher license exams in the state in which they wish to teach. States other than North Dakota may require courses specific to their state before licensure. North Dakota Licensure requires passing scores of a Principals of Learning and Teaching (PLT) PRAXIS and a content (Early Childhood) PRAXIS exam. Once these exams are passed, graduates from Sitting Bull College will be licensed to teach birth to grade 3 in the state of North Dakota. Other states license in Early Childhood have similar grade ranges for their licenses.