Understanding Family and Community

This course is designed to foster understanding of the significant roles of families and communities in the growth of young children. Topics include recognizing children at risk; establishing linkages with community resources to support families; recognizing and accepting diverse family units; the impact of home, community, health, and cultural experience on development and learning; and understanding social, historical, political, legal, and philosophical constructs that impact children, families, and communities. Identification and collaboration with community agencies and resources to support individuals with special needs and their families will be addressed. In addition, students will consult databases to summarize peer-reviewed research studies and form an argument around a contemporary issue in education.