College of the Desert offers three paths for students wishing to work in elementary school. Elementary school teachers are required to have a bachelor’s degree and a fifth year of teacher education. Our Elementary Teacher Education transfer degree will prepare students to transfer to CSU to work towards that goal.
We also offer two certificates that prepare students to work as Teacher Assistants/Paraeducators. Students completing these certificates will be prepared to work in an elementary school setting as a special education assistant and may choose to continue on towards an AA degree and/or transfer to a four year college.
Advisors:
Jessica Huffman
Tiffanie Schnabel-Moreno
EDUC 001 Introduction to Elementary Classroom Teaching Units: 3
This course introduces students to the concepts and issues related to teaching diverse learners in today's contemporary schools. Topics include: teaching as a profession and career; historical and philosophical foundations of the American education system; contemporary educational issues; California's content standards and frameworks; and teacher performance standards. In addition to class time, the course requires a minimum of 45 hours of structured homework in public elementary classrooms that represent California's diverse student population, and includes cooperation with at least one carefully selected and campus approved certificated classroom teacher. (C-ID EDUC 200)
Lecture Hours: 54 Lab Hours: None Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: ECE 010
Advisory: ENG 001A
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: CSU/UC* Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CSU GE: E IGETC: None
CDE 095A Child Development & Education Work Exper Units: 1-5
This work experience course of supervised employment provides students the opportunity to connect academics to applied experiential learning in the workplace. It assists students in developing transferable employability skills, career awareness, learning industry culture, competencies and norms, and developing professional networks that support career mobility. To enroll, students must have a job or internship placement in a part-time or full-time capacity. Credit may be accrued at the rate of one to five (1-5) units per semester based on the student's ability to meet the hours required per unit enrolled. Students must work 54 hours per unit earned. This Work Experience course is available to students whose job or internship placement is directly related to Child Development & Education.
Lecture Hours: None Lab Hours: 270 Repeatable: Yes
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: None
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: CSU Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CSU GE: None IGETC: None
CDE 101 Child Growth & Development Units: 3
This course examines the major physical, psychosocial, and cognitive/language developmental milestones for children, both typical and atypical, from conception through adolescence. There will be an emphasis on interactions between maturation processes and environmental factors. While studying developmental theory and investigative research methodologies, students will observe children, evaluate individual differences, and analyze characteristics of development at various stages. (C-ID CDEV 100)
Lecture Hours: 54 Lab Hours: None Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: None
Advisory: ENG 001A
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: CSU/UC Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: C5 CSU GE: D7, E IGETC: None
CDE 102 Child, Family, & Community Units: 3
The process of socialization focusing on the interrelationship of family, school, and community. Examines the influence of multiple societal contexts. Explores the role of collaboration between family, community and schools in supporting children's development.(C-ID CDEV 110)
Lecture Hours: 54 Lab Hours: None Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: None
Advisory: CDE 101
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: CSU/UC Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: C5 CSU GE: D7, E IGETC: None
CDE 103 Principles & Practices of Teaching Units: 3
This course presents an examination of the underlying theoretical principles of developmentally appropriate practice in early care and education. Emphasis on the role of the early childhood educator, the importance of teacher-child relationships, and effective teaching strategies and environmental design for supporting development in young children. This course includes a review of the historical roots of early childhood programs and the evolution of the professional practices promoting advocacy, ethics, and professional identity. C-ID: ECE 120
Lecture Hours: 54 Lab Hours: None Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: None
Advisory: ENG 001A
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: CSU/UC Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CSU GE: None IGETC: None
CDE 104 Introduction to Curriculum Units: 3
This course presents an overview of knowledge and skills related to providing appropriate curriculum and environments for young children. Students examine teacher's role in supporting development and fostering the joy of learning for all young children using observation and assessment strategies emphasizing the essential role of play. An overview of content areas will include, but not be limited to: Language and literacy, social and emotional learning, sensory learning, art and creativity, math and science. (C-ID ECE 130)
Lecture Hours: 54 Lab Hours: None Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: CDE-101 or ECE-010 CDE-102 or ECE-012
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: CSU Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CSU GE: None IGETC: None
CDE 201 Health, Safety, & Nutrition Units: 3
Introduction to the laws, regulations, standards, policies, procedures, best practices and early childhood curriculum related to child health, safety, and nutrition. Includes prevention strategies, nutrition, and meal planning for various ages and planning education experiences integrated into daily routines designed to teach children positive health, safety, and nutrition habits. The key components that ensure physical health, mental health and safety for both children and staff will be identified along with the importance of collaboration with families and health professionals. (C-ID ECE 220)
Lecture Hours: 54 Lab Hours: None Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: CDE 104
Advisory: ENG 001A
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: CSU Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CSU GE: None IGETC: None
CDE 202 Teaching in a Diverse Society Units: 3
Examination of the development of social identities in diverse societies including theoretical and practical implications of oppression and privilege as they apply to young children, families, programs, classrooms and teaching. Various classroom strategies are explored emphasizing culturally and linguistically appropriate anti-bias approaches supporting all children in becoming competent members of a diverse society. Course includes self-examination and reflection on issues related to social identity, stereotypes and bias, social and educational access, media and schooling. (C-ID ECE 230)
Lecture Hours: 54 Lab Hours: None Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: CDE 104
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: CSU/UC Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CSU GE: None IGETC: None
CDE 203 Observation and Assessment Units: 3
This course focuses on the appropriate use of assessment and observation strategies to document development, growth, play and learning in order to join with families and professionals in promoting children's success and maintaining quality programs. Recording strategies, rating systems, portfolios, and multiple assessment methods are explored. (C-ID ECE 200)
Lecture Hours: 36 Lab Hours: 54 Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: CDE 201 or concurrent enrollment
Advisory: ENG 001A
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: CSU Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CSU GE: None IGETC: None
CDE 204 Practicum in Early Childhood Education Units: 4
A demonstration of developmentally appropriate early childhood teaching competencies under guided supervision. Students will utilize practical classroom experiences to make connections between theory and practice, develop professional behaviors, and build a comprehensive understanding of children and families. Child centered, play-oriented approaches to teaching, learning, and assessment; and knowledge of curriculum content areas will be emphasized as student teachers design, implement and evaluate experiences that promote positive development and learning for all young children. (C-ID ECE 210)
Lecture Hours: 36 Lab Hours: 108 Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: CDE 101 & CDE 102 & CDE 103 & CDE 104 & CDE 203 (formerly ECE 001 ECE 010 ECE 012 ECE 040 & ECE 046B)
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: CSU Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CSU GE: None IGETC: None
CDE 220 Infant/Toddler Growth & Development Units: 3
This course studies the process of human development from conception through age three as determined by heredity, society, and human interaction with implications for child guidance. Prenatal development and the birth process are emphasized. Theoretical frameworks are applied to interpret behavior and interactions between heredity and environment. Multiple influences on development are analyzed including cultural, linguistic, and ability differences are emphasized. The role of family and relationships in development are emphasized.
Lecture Hours: 54 Lab Hours: None Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: CDE 101
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: CSU/UC Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CSU GE: None IGETC: None
CDE 221 Infant/Toddler Curriculum Units: 3
This course prepares students to apply current theory and research to the care and education of children from birth to 36 months including design of a developmentally appropriate learning environment. Licensing requirements and teacher competency necessary for working with children from birth to 36 months are explored. Essential policies and practices that contribute to high quality care for children from birth to 36 months are examined.
Lecture Hours: 54 Lab Hours: None Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: CDE 101 & CDE 220
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: CSU Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CSU GE: None IGETC: None
CDE 223 The Mentor Teacher/Adult Supervision Units: 2
Methods and principles of supervising student teachers, volunteers, staff, and other adults in early care and education settings. Emphasis is on the role and development of early childhood education professionals as mentors and leaders.
Lecture Hours: 36 Lab Hours: None Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: CDE 203
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: CSU Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CSU GE: None IGETC: None
CDE 224 Administration of Programs for Young Children Units: 3
Introduction to the administration of early childhood programs. Covers program types, budget, management, regulations, laws, development and implementation of policies and procedures. Examines administrative tools, philosophies, and techniques needed to organize, open, and operate an early care and education program. It is required by the State Department of Social Services for directors of private preschools and child care programs.
Lecture Hours: 54 Lab Hours: None Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: CDE 101 & completion of 9 additional units of CDE course work
Advisory: ENG 001A
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: CSU Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CSU GE: None IGETC: None
CDE 225 Advanced Administration of Programs for Young Children Units: 3
Effective strategies for personnel management and leadership in early care and education settings. Includes legal and ethical responsibilities, supervision techniques, professional development, and reflective practices for a diverse and inclusive early care and education program.
Lecture Hours: 54 Lab Hours: None Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: CDE 224
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: CSU Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CSU GE: None IGETC: None
CDE 226A Parenting Infants & Toddlers Units: 1
This course explores parent-child interaction patterns for parents of infants and toddlers. Students examine age-appropriate behaviors, problem behaviors, observation and communication strategies. Special attention is given to family structures, cultural backgrounds, and parenting children with disabilities.
Lecture Hours: 18 Lab Hours: None Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: None
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: None Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CSU GE: None IGETC: None
CDE 226B Parenting the Preschool Child Units: 1
This course explores parent-child interaction patterns for parents of preschool aged children. Students examine age-appropriate behaviors, problem behaviors, observation and communication strategies. Special attention is given to family structures, cultural backgrounds, and parenting children with disabilities.
Lecture Hours: 18 Lab Hours: None Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: None
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: None Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CSU GE: None IGETC: None
CDE 226C Parenting the Young Child Units: 1
This course explores parent-child interaction patterns for those parenting children ages 5-8. Students examine age-appropriate behaviors, problem behaviors, observation and communication strategies. Special attention is given to family structures, cultural backgrounds, and parenting children with disabilities.
Lecture Hours: 18 Lab Hours: None Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: None
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: None Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CSU GE: None IGETC: None
CDE 227 Child Guidance Units: 3
This course presents a developmentally appropriate approach to the guidance of children, including children with special needs. Effective guidance techniques, effective communication and working with children in groups will be covered. The role of and collaboration with familiy as a means to effective guidance will be covered. This course is intended for teachers and professionals who work with children in a variety of settings.
Lecture Hours: 54 Lab Hours: None Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: None
Advisory: CDE 101 & ENG 001A
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: CSU/UC Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: C2, C5 CSU GE: None IGETC: None
CDE 228 Child Maltreatment, Intervention, & Prevention Units: 3
This course examines physical, emotional and sexual abuse, neglect, and exploitation of minors (children and youth), as well as issues which contribute to child maltreatment. The developmental consequences of stress and trauma on children are explored. Emphasis is placed on appropriate ways to support family strengths, foster positive mental health and prevent, detect and intervene in cases of suspected child maltreatment. California Mandated Reporter Training will be completed as a part of this course.
Lecture Hours: 54 Lab Hours: None Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: None
Advisory: ENG 001A
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: CSU/UC Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CSU GE: None IGETC: None
CDE 229 Children's Literature Units: 3
This course introduces students to a formal study of literature for children from preschool through middle school, including critical examination of genres, themes, and cultures depicted in these texts; in addition, students study the professional literary criticism of this literature. (Equivalent to ENG 036.)(C-ID ENGL 180)
Lecture Hours: 54 Lab Hours: None Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: ENG 001A
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: CSU/UC Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: C3 CSU GE: C2 IGETC: 3B
CDE 230 English Language Learners in ECE Units: 3
This course focuses on principles for promoting language, literacy, and learning for preschool English language learners. Upon successful completion of this course, students will demonstrate the ability to foster an environment that respects and values linguistic and cultural diversity while assisting children toward the eventual mastery of English as a second language.
Lecture Hours: 54 Lab Hours: None Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: CDE 101
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: CSU Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CSU GE: None IGETC: None
CDE 231 Creativity in Young Children Units: 3
This course examines materials and techniques for teaching creative activities to young children. Developing creativity and cognitive flexibility are emphasized. Various sensory modalities are explored. Alignment of curriculum with California State Standards while providing a play-based creative environment is highlighted.
Lecture Hours: 54 Lab Hours: None Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: CDE 101
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: CSU Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CSU GE: None IGETC: None
CDE 232 Science, Technology, Engineering & Math in ECE Units: 3
This course explores the development of curriculum ideas for teaching about scientific, mathematical, engineering, and technology (STEM) concepts to young children.
Lecture Hours: 54 Lab Hours: None Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: CDE 101
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: CSU Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CSU GE: None IGETC: None
CDE 233 Introduction to Young Children with Special Needs Units: 3
This course provides an introduction to special education in early childhood settings. Introduces the variations in development of children with special needs ages birth through eight and the resulting impact on families. Includes an overview of historical and societal influences, laws relating to children with special needs, and the identification and referral process. The role of child development professionals and paraprofessionals in serving children with disabilities is emphasized. Strategies to include children with special needs in full inclusion settings are emphasized.
Lecture Hours: 54 Lab Hours: None Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: CDE 101
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: CSU Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CSU GE: None IGETC: None
CDE 234 Inclusion Strategies for Children with Special Needs Units: 3
This course prepares students to become professionals in programs serving children with special needs and their families. Covers curriculum and intervention strategies for working with children with special needs in partnership with their families and communities. Focuses on the use of observation and assessment in meeting the individualized needs of children in inclusive and natural environments. Including the role of the teacher and other professionals working with families, collaboration with interdisciplinary teams and cultural competence. Strategies to support children with challenging behaviors are emphasized.
Lecture Hours: 54 Lab Hours: None Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: CDE 233
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: CSU Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CSU GE: None IGETC: None
CDE 236 Music and Movement for Young Children Units: 3
This course emphasizes the creation of developmentally appropriate curriculum ideas for using music and movement to develop listening skills, basic music concepts, and identification of instruments in a whole child approach. Emphasis is placed on using music and movement to enhance curriculum in all domains of development. The use of music and movement concepts to explore child guidance and emergent curriculum will be covered.
Lecture Hours: 54 Lab Hours: None Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: CDE 101
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: CSU Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CSU GE: None IGETC: None
CDE 237 Inclusion Practicum Units: 3
Designed to develop both planning and intervention skills for working with children with special needs and their families. Students will plan educational programs which include use of specific intervention techniques and practices from recognized early intervention programs for children showing atypical development. Attention will be given to adopting strategies to include exceptional children in programs for typically developing young children. Students will be required to complete 54 hours of supervised field experience in an approved inclusion classroom.
Lecture Hours: 36 Lab Hours: 54 Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: CDE 234
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: CSU Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CSU GE: None IGETC: None
CDE 240 Social Cognition & the Developing Brain Units: 3
This course is designed to help students understand brain development occurs through the interaction of a child's relationships and experiences. Early childhood teachers (birth to age eight) create calm and effective learning environments when they facilitate children's capacity to know others (social cognition) and to get along with others (prosocial behavior).
Lecture Hours: 54 Lab Hours: None Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: CDE 101
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: None Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CSU GE: None IGETC: None
CDE 241 ECE Global Diplomacy Practicum Units: 3
This course is designed to develop the practical skills needed to work in a global education environment by placing students in an integrated, service-learning study abroad experience. Critical thinking skills and application will be developed by examining communication, culture, history, values and lifestyles in the context of childhood.
Lecture Hours: 18 Lab Hours: 108 Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: CDE 204
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: None Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CSU GE: None IGETC: None
CDE 245 Licensed Family Child Care Units: 2
This course prepares students to integrate basic principles of child development in establishing a quality child care program within a family home environment. The following are emphasized: Community Care Licensing Title 22 Regulations, Family Child Care Rating Scale (FCCRS), health, safety, nutrition, and child guidance policies and practices that support all children, and the principles of developmentally appropriate curriculum in working with children of various ages.
Lecture Hours: 36 Lab Hours: None Repeatable: No
Grading: Letter
Prerequisite: None
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: None Degree Applicable: AA/AS
COD GE: None CSU GE: None IGETC: None
CDE 326A Parenting Infants & Toddlers Units: 0
This course explores parent-child interaction patterns for parents of infants and toddlers. Students examine age-appropriate behaviors, problem behaviors, observation and communication strategies. Special attention is given to family structures, cultural backgrounds, and parenting children with disabilities.
Noncredit Hours: 18 Repeatable: Yes
Grading: Pass/No Pass
Prerequisite: None
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: None Degree Applicable: NONC
COD GE: None CSU GE: None IGETC: None
CDE 326B Parenting the Preschool Child Units: 0
This course explores parent-child interaction patterns for parents of preschool aged children. Students examine age-appropriate behaviors, problem behaviors, observation and communication strategies. Special attention is given to family structures, cultural backgrounds, and parenting children with disabilities.
Noncredit Hours: 18 Repeatable: Yes
Grading: Pass/No Pass
Prerequisite: None
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: None Degree Applicable: NONC
COD GE: None CSU GE: None IGETC: None
CDE 326C Parenting the Young Child Units: 0
This course explores parent-child interaction patterns for those parenting children ages 5-8. Students examine age-appropriate behaviors, problem behaviors, observation and communication strategies. Special attention is given to family structures, cultural backgrounds, and parenting children with disabilities.
Noncredit Hours: 18 Repeatable: Yes
Grading: Pass/No Pass
Prerequisite: None
Advisory: None
Limitation on enrollment: None
Transfer Status: None Degree Applicable: NONC
COD GE: None CSU GE: None IGETC: None