Early Childhood Education Degree Online

Early Childhood Education Degree Online

In order to work in preschool classrooms and daycares with babies, preschoolers and young children, you typically need a certificate, degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE). Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of education degrees are usually found at universities, while many community colleges and online universities offer certification and diploma programs either on-site or through distance learning. For many students, the benefits of studying at home, via online classes, on their own schedule, makes distance learning the best choice.

Students who live further from community colleges or universities find that distance learning allows them to study without having to move. Those with families in particular can find this beneficial, as can those already employed and not willing or able to give up their job and income. Even those who live near colleges or universities may find the flexibility of a distance learning program better fits their lives.

Modern distance learning is not the same as the old correspondence classes where everything was sent through the mail. Computers are put to good use, for both the delivery of and the submission of materials and assignments. Virtual classes allow the teacher to address an entire class at once, while email and video calls can connect student with teacher easily.

Subjects are usually divided into units, and all learning materials are either found online or mailed to students. Due days are assigned for homework and projects , but within that framework, students typically enjoy a fair bit of freedom to arrange their schedule to suit their life. Some online schools and distance learning providers have regularly scheduled classes, sometimes called virtual classes, where lessons are taught to the group, and some online programs also include some in person classes and meetings at a central location.

All Early Childhood Education programs have a large classroom component €" not adult classroom but child classroom, in a daycare or preschool setting. Hands-on practicum, with student observation and interaction is a valuable part of any ECE program, and is a required element of the program in order to earn certification or a diploma.

In most states and provinces, there is a minimum of 400 to 450 hours (and sometimes more) of volunteered or worked classroom time in order to become a licenced child care educator. These practicums are typically in the student's home area, and usually the school will help arrange the practicums, though in some cases students may propose a program they are already familiar with, and arrangements can be made.