Theories of education are important for teachers to understand because they will guide a teacher’s educational beliefs, practices, and decisions. Models provide a framework for the systems and processes within early childhood education and inform education standards, both at the state and national levels.
For this assignment, utilize resources found in the GCU Library and the course textbook to research theories that have influenced early childhood education. Select four theories from the list below:
Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory
Piaget’s cognitive development theory
Vygotsky’s sociocultural constructivism theory
Bowlby’s attachment theory
Bandura’s social learning theory
Erikson’s psychosocial theory
Maslow’s hierarchy of needs theory
For each theory, write 200-300 words about the following:
Summary of each theory, including the timeframe in which the theory was developed.
How the theory has influenced early childhood education.
How each theory can be applied to make developmentally appropriate decisions in curriculum and instruction.
Support your work with 2-3 scholarly references.
Prepare this assignment according to the guidelines found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center.
This assignment uses a rubric. Review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion.
You are required to submit this assignment to LopesWrite. Refer to the LopesWrite technical support articles for assistance.
Benchmark Information
This benchmark assignment assesses the following programmatic competencies and professional standards:
MEd Early Childhood Education [ITL/NITL]
1.1: Explore theories and philosophies of early learning and development to make developmentally appropriate decisions to respond to each child through curriculum and instruction. [MC2] [AAQEP 1b; InTASC 1(d), 1(e), 1(h), 1(j), 2(j), 4(j), 4(n), 5(i), 7(i); NAEYC 1b]
