Article Link: http://exchangepress.com/article/evaluating-an-early-childhood-degree-program/5021629/
In the field of early childhood education (ECE), demands for increased education requirements are changing state-to-state. Over the past two decades, research has increasingly shown a link between ECE program quality and teacher preparation (Barnett, 2011; Bowman, 2011; Cassidyet al. 1995; Howes et al., 1992, 1995; Kontos et al., 1997). The ECE field has increasingly moved away from teachers holding a few units or credits in Child Development to teachers holding Bachelor’s degrees and ECE credentials.
What do these educational changes mean to current and prospective ECE teachers? This varies by state. Current teachers may not be affected by changing requirements; although they can look at this as an opportunity to continue their education and to update their practices by taking classes. It is recommended that prospective teachers seek the highest level of academic attainment possible. Education, as a whole, is a field where level of education and wages are inextricably linked, especially in the public sector.
Head Start teachers have been returning to school as the qualifications for teachers increase. A memorandum issued by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (2011) outlines “Statutory Degree and Credentialing Requirements” speaks to the change in requirements:
By October 1, 2011, each ...