By Coppin State University
Coppin State University will now offer its Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education Human Development program online. The program, which focuses on educating children during their earliest stages of development, uses theory, content, and strategy to prepare educators for the classroom, and for meaningful interactions with minority students, as well as students learning in urban communities.
“Offering this program online is another way to eliminate barriers that delay or prevent hardworking individuals from pursuing their education, and improving their circumstances,” said Coppin State University President Anthony L. Jenkins, Ph.D. “This is an opportunity to provide flexibility for working professionals who may not be able to participate in a traditional classroom setting. This will also allow students from all backgrounds to access the quality education available at Coppin State University, no matter where they live or work.”
The Early Childhood Education Human Development curriculum focuses on cultivating cultural competency and responsiveness in its students by providing students with a strong foundation of cultural, emotional, and social development. This, in turn, allows them to develop enriching learning activities and strengthen school readiness in children up to age five.
“Developing the Early Childhood Education Human Development Online Program has been a labor of love,” said Juanita Ashby-Bey, Ph.D., Assistant Professor in Coppin State University’s Department of Teaching and Learning. “The program will provide a new level of access for daycare providers and early learning centers, which will enhance learning experiences for the children they serve. This collaboration satisfies a strong need in Maryland to help working daycare providers and center owners to expand their understanding of how young children develop and learn.”
The program is targeted toward professionals who work with children from infancy to the age of five, in early learning centers and similar environments. The courses are modeled after courses offered in-person at Coppin State University and designed with assistance from the online program management firm, iDesign. The online program is supported by the Empowering Emerging Teachers Grant from the Maryland State Department of Education that supports the development of early learning professionals to address the needs of all student populations.
“Providing early childcare professionals with the opportunity to earn their bachelor’s degree in early childhood education human development online is innovative and exciting,” says Dr. Wyletta Gamble-Lomax, Assistant Professor at Coppin State University. “With an intentional focus on culturally responsive instruction, both teachers and administrators will engage in work that leads to genuine relationship building, equitable learning experiences, and continual community engagement.”
