This course explores the historical, philosophical, and social foundations of P-5 education as they relate to best practice. Culturally responsive program design and implementation, physically and psycho-socially safe and healthy learning environments, standards-based learning and teaching, research updates, the critical role of adult/child relationships, and collaborative partnerships with families and other professionals define the template applied to a variety of P-5 theories and model programs. The course also examines career options, social and policy issues, ethics, and child advocacy to help P-5 students become independent, self-regulated learners.
