The field of child development/early childhood education studies involves the study of the developmental patterns and learning theories of children from birth to age twelve. The Certificate of Achievement Child Development Multicultural Awareness gives students additional insight into the diverse students and family populations. Professionals in this field invoke the term development as a way to understand the child’s growth and learning and to inform practice. The Child Development (CHDV) discipline at Pasadena City College offers a curriculum that guides students on various pathways, which may include the attainment of a Transfer Degree (wherein, they can transfer to a 4-year institution and obtain advanced degrees), or an Associate of Science Degree, and/or a Certificate of Achievement in Child Development that will lead students to immediate career opportunities that can work with infants, toddlers, preschoolers, children with special needs.
Courses provide a theoretical foundation and prepare students for careers in Teaching in Early Care and Education schools such as infant, toddler, preschool, or Transitional Kindergarten (TK) programs, Elementary Schools (public or private), Before-and After-school programs, Family Child Care Homes, General Education Settings including parks and recreation programs, Medical Centers/Hospitals as a Child Life Specialist, Private Households, non-profit and governmental agencies concerned with the welfare of children, and Social and Human Service programs. Child Development coursework can also lead to work with elementary and secondary age students in a credentialed teaching position.
The Certificate of Achievement Child Development Multicultural Awareness meets the coursework requirement for the California Child Development Teacher (or Master Teacher) permit issued by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing for employment in Public School Programs (Title 5) and for employment in community care facilities under Title 22 of the California State Department of Social Services. Additionally, a number of courses (1-99) meet General Education requirements for the Associate of Science Degree and Associate in Science for Transfer Degree. Completion of the Associate in Science for Transfer (AS-T) Degree in Early Childhood Education ensures transfer students will complete the lower-division general education requirements as well as many lower-division major requirements for a bachelor’s degree in Child Development prior to transferring to a CSU.
Program Outcomes
- Explain using original written and/or oral presentations the ability to identify the theories and practices of the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical developmental areas of young children.
- Evaluate important factors in planning child educational programs and the ethical issues involved in working with young children.
- Compare and contrast the skills necessary in working with and supporting diverse families, structures, and program practices.
- Support developmental appropriate practices and all relevant curriculum standards.
- Demonstrate critical thinking skills to observe, analyze, synthesize and evaluate ideas and information.