Early Childhood Field Experience: Learning to Teach Well

For many student teachers the prospect of facing their first classroom experience is overwhelming. This book presents a realistic view of what they will face in the classroom, but also provides them the skills they need to become reflective, professional teachers in their own right. Early Childhood Learning Experience: Learning to Teach Well is a combination of an informational text and workbook-like exercises that encourage self-reflection and ways for each student to get the most out of their fieldwork experience. It includes features from real student teachers as well as from current mentor teachers. Developmentally and culturally appropriate practices are woven throughout the text to ensure readers are aware of national standards for programs and practices.

The text moves seamlessly from one core topic to the next, guiding the next generation of teachers as they learn to put knowledge into practice The text addresses current topics and trends in early childhood education such as team teaching, observation and assessment, diversity, professionalism and ethics, curriculum and environment, and working with families. It is the only text to give in-depth coverage to team teaching and offer specific examples of the challenges of team teaching along with tips for working well with other adults. An entire chapter is devoted to Professionalism and Ethics, including key issues such as teacher evaluation, career preparation and advancement, guides for ethical behavior with scenarios for analysis, and new “Ethical Dilemmas” appropriate for every chapter in the text. Throughout this new edition, additional material on infant-toddler care, which is a growing trend in early care and education, has been added.

Written in an accessible and lively style, this text guides student teachers from the first days of getting started in their fieldwork through the many responsibilities they will encounter as they teach. Each chapter stresses thoughtful consideration and reflection - both in chapter content and throughout multiple activities that help students gain insight into their teaching experiences.