EDU 1003 Theories of Child Development (2-2-3)

This course explores foundational theories of child development across physical, cognitive, language, social, and emotional domains. It examines how growth and learning intersect to shape children’s holistic development. Emphasis is placed on understanding the types and stages of play, as well as the crucial role of relationships, social interactions, and play-based experiences in fostering development and learning. Through observation, reflection, and analysis, students gain knowledge and skills to support children’s growth and well-being in diverse early learning settings.

EDU 1103 Play-based Learning in Early Childhood (2-2-3)

This course introduces the principles and practices of play-based learning in early childhood. Students explore how play supports children’s cognitive, social, emotional, physical, and language development through developmentally appropriate learning experiences. Emphasis is placed on designing engaging play environments, selecting appropriate materials, and facilitating child-centered learning through guided and open-ended play. Through collaborative activities and practical applications, students develop strategies for integrating play-based approaches into early childhood settings.

EDU 1133 Mathematical Foundations for Early Childhood Educators (2-2-3)

This course develops quantitative reasoning and mathematical foundations for early childhood education through the study of number and quantity, algebra, geometry and measurement, statistics, and probability. Students will apply mathematical concepts to educational contexts, analyze data, and explore digital tools that support effective teaching and learning. Through class-based learning, problem-solving activities, and project-based tasks, students will develop and evaluate digital resources that strengthen instructional effectiveness and mathematical competence in early childhood settings.

EDU 1313 Health, Safety and Nutrition in Early Childhood (2-2-3)

This course explores how health, safety, and nutrition influence the growth, development, and overall well-being of young children from birth to age eight. Students examine how diseases affect early learning, create safe and inclusive environments, and apply preventive health practices. Emphasis is placed on the interconnected roles of educators, families, and communities in promoting wellness. Through case studies and applied tasks, students gain the knowledge and skills to design developmentally appropriate health and nutrition experiences aligned with UAE and international standards.

EDU 1503 Theories of Learning (2-2-3)

This course introduces students to major learning theories and their application in early childhood education through the exploration of Behaviorism, Constructivism, Social Learning, and neurocognitive processes. Students will develop skills in analyzing classroom practices and designing developmentally appropriate instructional strategies through practicum experiences, microteaching, case studies, and project-based learning. By the end of the course, students will be equipped to create engaging learning experiences that support young children’s learning and participation.

Prerequisites: EDU 1003

EDU 2133 Introduction to Sustainability in Early Childhood (2-2-3)

This course introduces sustainability concepts in Early Childhood Education within the UAE context, aligned with UAE Vision 2031 and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Students define sustainability and its relevance to ECE, explore environmental, social, and economic dimensions, and analyze how early learning fosters lifelong sustainable values. Through reflection and practical application, students evaluate practices and design developmentally appropriate experiences integrating sustainability, promoting awareness, responsibility, and ethical engagement in early childhood settings.

EDU 2533 Artificial Intelligence in Education (2-2-3)

This course introduces future educators to the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education. Students will explain key AI concepts and analyze their applications in early childhood and school contexts. They will evaluate the benefits and risks of AI integration, focusing on ethics, child safety, and equity. Through hands-on activities, students will demonstrate the use of AI tools for teaching, learning, and assessment. By the end of the course, students will design and create practical, ethically sound resources that support responsible AI implementation in educational practice.

EDU 2713 Principles of Arabic First Language Acquisition and Pedagogy (2-2-3)

This course examines theoretical foundations of first language acquisition with emphasis on Arabic. Students gain knowledge of factors influencing language development, build skills in oral communication, phonological and phonemic awareness, and emergent literacy practices. The course also develops competencies in applying instructional methods and strategies in early childhood education, including lesson planning, assessment, classroom support. Through interactive activities and applied tasks, students strengthen their ability to foster effective first language development in young children.

EDU 3103 Introduction to Action Research in Early Childhood (2-2-3)

This course introduces key concepts of educational research grounded in reflective inquiry. Students examine, interpret, and critique academic and research literature from diverse sources while developing essential reading strategies such as skimming, scanning, and analysis. The course emphasizes understanding primary and secondary data sources in early childhood contexts. Students reflect on how experiences and a review of literature inform the development of an action research topic, fostering analytical and communication skills for professional growth in early childhood education.

EDU 4003 Research Methods and Reflective Practice in Early Childhood (2-0-3)

This course introduces the principles and practices of action research, emphasizing ethical considerations and systematic inquiry. Students explore data collection and analysis methods relevant to educational contexts. Through the Teaching Practicum, they engage as teacher-researchers, identifying and investigating a specific competency within their professional practice. The course fosters critical reflection, evidence-based decision-making, and research-informed teaching strategies. By the end, students will design an action research proposal to be implemented in EDU 4503.

Prerequisites: EDU 3033

EDU 4203 Integrated Curriculum Mapping and Planning (2-2-3)

This course introduces the fundamental principles of curriculum mapping and planning in Early Childhood Education. It explores how curriculum frameworks, school-level plans, and syllabi align to create cohesive learning experiences. Students examine the key components of integrated unit plans, investigate factors influencing implementation and monitoring, and design developmentally appropriate units that promote inquiry, collaboration, and engagement. Emphasis is placed on connecting theory to practice and fostering reflective curriculum design for effective early learning outcomes.

EDU 4503 Capstone Research Project (2-0-3)

This course builds on prior learning from the Research Methods and Reflective Practice in Early Childhood Education course. It deepens students’ understanding of the action research process through collaborative planning, implementation, and analysis of a capstone project. Students examine findings to refine their professional practice and synthesize the action research cycle, considering its implications, limitations, and recommendations. Emphasis is placed on reflective inquiry, academic writing, and developing research suitable for publication and professional growth.

Prerequisites: EDU 4003

EDU 4603 Teacher Licensure and Employment Preparation (2-0-3)

The course prepares students to demonstrate competence in alignment with the UAE National Occupational Standards (NOS) for Early Childhood Educators. Builds self-awareness, professional identity, and career readiness through exploration of employment opportunities in both government and private sectors. Develops employability and communication skills through mock interviews, portfolio creation, and professional networking. Students will also learn to design a professional Curriculum Vitae and e-profile showcasing their achievements, qualifications, and readiness to begin their teaching career.

EDU 4803 Inclusive Strategies and Intervention for Early Childhood Education (2-2-3)

Develops further understanding of the current philosophies, structure, levels of support, methodologies, assistive technologies, and applications for People of Determination in Early Childhood Education. Explores a variety of inclusive practices and interventions in support of People of Determination with reference to local and international approaches.

Prerequisites: ECE 3103