Description
The Degree of the Department of Early Childhood Education of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki constitutes a higher education qualification of four years’ duration, certifying the successful completion of an undergraduate programme in early childhood education, with theoretical training and practical placement.
Relation to Employment
Graduates of the Department of Early Childhood Education of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki possess pedagogical and teaching competence for teaching in early childhood education and acquire the professional rights to practice the profession of kindergarten teacher. They belong to the PE60 branch of Kindergarten Teachers.
Access Requirements / Progression Opportunities
Graduates of the Department of Early Childhood Education of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki possess pedagogical and teaching competence for teaching in early childhood education and acquire the professional rights to practice the profession of kindergarten teacher. They belong to the PE60 branch of Kindergarten Teachers.
Knowledge
Graduates of the Department, upon completion of their studies, are expected to possess a coherent body of knowledge of the fundamental theories, principles, and concepts of early childhood education, to understand the dimensions of development and learning in early childhood, to be familiar with contemporary pedagogical and instructional approaches for the design and support of learning experiences in preschool education, and to recognize the institutional, social, and cultural context within which the educator’s role is exercised.
Skills
Upon completion of their studies, students will be able to design, organize, implement, and evaluate pedagogical activities appropriate for preschool children, taking into account their needs, interests, and developmental characteristics, to create learning environments that promote play, creativity, inquiry, and participation, to employ contemporary pedagogical and instructional approaches in support of learning and social interaction, to observe and assess children’s learning and developmental progress, and to communicate and collaborate effectively with children, parents, colleagues, and other professionals in the context of early childhood education.
Competences
Graduates will be able to apply their scientific and pedagogical knowledge in diverse early childhood education settings, to respond with professionalism, responsibility, and pedagogical sensitivity to the needs of children in early childhood, to collaborate effectively with parents, colleagues, and other professionals within interdisciplinary frameworks, and to adapt to contemporary educational, social, and cultural challenges by undertaking initiatives that ensure high-quality and inclusive learning experiences.