COURSE:
Early Childhood Education I
COMPETENCY:
10.00
B2
7%
OBJECTIVE:
10.02
B2
3%
UNIT D
The Field of Early Childhood Education
Understand career trends, opportunities, and options in
early childhood education.
Understand benefits and limitations of work and
education options.
Essential Questions:
In the field of early childhood education . . .
What are the benefits/limitations of going to work immediately after high school?
What are the benefits/limitations of going to school for further education and a degree?
UNPACKED CONTENT
After completing the Early Childhood Education program and graduating from high school, students
have two basic options for working in the field --- (1) going to work immediately, or (2) going to school
for further education and a degree before seeking employment.
Some early childhood jobs are available immediately, while other careers in and related to early
childhood require further education --- college/university, career/trade school, military training, or
community college. There are benefits and limitations to each option. These benefits and limitations
represent advantages and disadvantages as they are considered in light of an individuals goals and
priorities.
Option A:
Going to WORK after high school
Option B:
Going to SCHOOL for further education
Benefits
Limitations
Benefits
Limitations
1. Immediate employment
and income
1. Lower pay
1. Financially rewarding
career
1. Greater initial cost
2. Opportunities for
advancement
3. Manageable hours and
working conditions
4. Professional status
2. Longer time to reach
career goal
3. Entrance requirements
2. Immediate feeling of
2. Entry-level job tasks
accomplishment
3. Immediate opportunity to 3. Minimum job benefits
practice skills
4. Sense of independence
4. Limited variety of jobs
5. Fewer opportunities for 5. Broad range of majors
advancement
6. Can interfere with further 6. Broad education base
education
7. Financial assistance
available
8. Opportunities for
continuing education
4. Competitive job market