Starting Points 1:
How to Begin with Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Young Children

Course format

Learners are provided with a course workbook and media on VHS tape or DVD. Using a computer to complete assignments is optional and not required.

Who should take this course?

• K-3 teachers
• Pre-K teachers
• Child care providers
• Head Start teachers
• ECE/ECSE students
• Classroom assistants

Credit

Course credit and fees are determined by each college/university partner.

Course description

This course highlights the feelings and concerns of teachers who lack training to support diversity - and the stress, pressure and isolation children often experience in English-only classrooms. Starting Points 1 teaches foundational practices that can be overlooked when young culturally and linguistically diverse children enter classrooms. It shows basic strategies that are critical in helping children to engage, participate and learn.

Video demonstrations are a key component of this course. These video segments were captured documentary style in a variety of classrooms and care settings. A sample video clip highlights the central issue in working with English Language Learners. Other segments show examples of the strategies presented in the coursework, so that you can see how they are implemented by highly skilled teachers and how children react and respond.

Take a closer look at this course with these useful resources:

Learning Goals and Syllabus. (pdf)
Sample Workbook Learning Activity. (pdf)
Applicability of Course Content to Credential Requirements and Standards. (pdf)
Sample video clip for Starting Points 1. (Quicktime)