The AAS-T combines technical courses required for job preparation and college-level general education courses. These degrees are designed for the dual purpose of immediate employment and preparation for the junior year in a Washington state bachelor of applied science (BAS) degree program. The AAS-T degree generally will not be accepted in transfer-in preparation for bachelor of arts or bachelor of science degrees although the general education component of the degree will be accepted in transfer.

Learning Outcomes

Degree recipients should possess the skills & abilities described below:

• Promote child development and learning by using their understanding of young children’s characteristics and needs to create environments that are healthy, respectful, supportive, and challenging for children of all abilities.

• Build and value diverse family and community relationships and support by demonstrating their understanding of the importance and complex characteristics of children’s families and communities.
• Observe, document and assess young children and use systematic observations, documentation, and other effective assessment strategies in a responsible way, in partnership with families and other professionals, to positively influence children’s development.
• Connect with children and families by knowing, understanding, and using positive relationships and supportive interactions as the foundation for their work with young children.
• Use developmentally effective approaches by knowing, understanding, and using a wide array of approaches, strategies, and tools to positively influence children’s development and learning.
• Utilize content knowledge in early education by applying the essential concepts, inquiry tools, and academic subjects; and use resources to deepen their understanding.
• Design, implement, and evaluate relevant, challenging, and responsive curriculum that promotes comprehensive developmental and learning outcomes for young children of all cultures.
• Identify, explain, and apply appropriate guidance techniques and theories as an important classroom management tool.
• Identify, explain, and apply nutrition, health and safety practices and procedures appropriate for use when teaching young children.
• Write clearly and effectively for varied audiences and purposes.
• Use, analyze and draw inferences from numerical and symbolic modes of communication.
• Graduates will be engaged as members of the Early Childhood profession and use ethical guidelines and other professional standards related to early childhood practice.

Degree Requirement

All ECED or EDUC coursework required for any ELTE Certificate or Degree must be completed with a minimum grade of “C” (2.0) or better.