This is a curriculum and methods course that addresses how to design, implement and evaluate developmentally appropriate curricula and programs for children from birth to six years of age. Issues of curriculum design and assessment are introduced as interrelated processes that include structuring learning environments and experiences that are responsive to children's interests and abilities. Strategies for developing learning opportunities that are appropriate for young children, including children with special needs and children from diverse cultural, ethnic and linguistic backgrounds, will be explored. Students analyze and evaluate curriculum that focuses on facilitating progress in the domains of a) social emotional development; b) cognitive development; c) language and communication development; d) adaptive behavior development and e) gross and fine motor development. Students also analyze and evaluate curriculum standards and frameworks for the young child's acquisition of concepts, skills and dispositions that support the development of early competencies and interest in literacy, mathematics, the sciences, social studies, the arts and individual and group sports. Prerequisite: Admittance into the ECU - Birth through Kindergarten graduate initial licensure teacher education program in the Department of Special Education or permission of the instructor. SPED 752 or its equivalent (may be taken concurrently).