All ECE and EDU courses include an experiential component. The classroom cannot convey the realistic application of some lessons with the same strength as seeing it for yourself.

Examples -

• Introduction to early education (ECE 110) includes 2, four hour classroom observations and a four hour service learning experience in an agency serving children or families.
• ECE 120 (Curriculum Development) requires planned activities carried out and supervised in an early childhood setting.
• ECE 175 (Observing and Recording) entails observing and recording in an early childhood setting to practice developmental documentation methods.

ECE electives have similar requirements pertinent to the course objectives.

EDU 111 (Foundations of Education) requires a 20 hour field experience in a classroom setting, assisting a teacher or child. This is designed as a "job shadow" experience, to help you in your decision to teach as a career. The instructor will assist you in placement for this experience.

WHAT'S FIELD EXPERIENCE?

ECE 200 or 201 Field Experience I or II is our equivalent to practicum or student teaching. Prerequisite for ECE 200 or 201 is successful completion of ECE 120 Curriculum Development

Both semesters of field experience are required for all AAS ECE students.

One semester is required for all those transferring into teacher education toward the Early Childhood certification birth through Grade 2 and Cortland's dual certification - Early Childhood/Childhood, birth through grade six.
Those students may take either 200 or 201 (out of sequence).

What do you do?

The course has a weekly seminar that includes readings, writing, discussion, and instructions for the field experience activities. (You may choose the online seminar indicated on the schedule with a Y)

Your field work consists of 8 hours a week for 12 weeks (96 hours) in a school setting. AAS ECE students will be placed in an infant/toddler setting and a preschool setting (2 semesters). LAGS EDU transfer students will be placed in an infant/toddler setting if possible. You will do field work in upper grades at Cortland including student teaching.

During the time in your field placement you will assist the qualified teacher (we select the teacher), plan and implement activities, observe, and learn.

Several times during the semester your lab instructor will make an appointment and observe you as you interact with children during your planned activities to give feedback on your professional practice.

What else do I need to know?

Before the semester begins you will receive a packet of information. You will be asked for some input to help make the match to your field site such as geographic location etc. You will receive instructions about being fingerprinted according to state regulations for anyone spending time in a school or child care center. You will need a TB test. Some sites require a recent physical.

Remember, this is where you practice being a professional. Appearance, good work habits, ethical conduct, dependability, proper application of the skills and theoretical knowledge you have gained in coursework, all are important components of the field experience.

You are an ambassador of the college and a potential employee in the future. So, do your best.