HDE 140L: Laboratory in Early Childhood

Infants look through colored plastic

This course satisfies the HDE practicum requirement. It is offered all three quarters: fall, winter and spring. HDE 140L is a 4.0 unit letter-graded course. 

Prerequisites:
  1. HDE 100A  or consent of instructor;
  2. Documentation of immunization records (in pdf format only). Some or all CA immunization records my now be obtained online here). Must show patient name and date of shots on each record:
    • Measles vaccination often displayed on records as MMR; or Measles immunity titer;
    • Pertussis (whooping cough) vaccination often displayed on records as DTP or DTaP;
    • Negative Tuberculosis test less than 12 months old at first day of classes or clear chest x-ray less than 4 years old; or if appropriate, a health professional may complete the Risk Assessment and waiver form and you may submit pages 1-2.
    • Current Flu season vaccination (August 31 – December 31) in line with campus directives.
    • Covid-19 vaccination(s) in alignment with campus directives.

Learn how to request placement in HDE 140L practicum at: humanecology.ucdavis.edu/practicum

science table
Course Summary

This practicum surveys theory, research, and practice-based knowledge of child development in an applied early childhood setting. Students will implement developmental principles as they interact with young children under the guidance of experts in the field of early care and learning. Course topics include: observation as a tool for research and reflective practice; the social context of language and cognitive development; development of self, relationships, and social-emotional competence; and diversity and inclusion in early learning settings. Emphasis will be placed on observation and hands-on learning. Readings will be utilized to further knowledge of child development, promote reflection and application, and prompt dynamic discussion during weekly meetings. Written assignments are intended to explore applied research skills, and develop academic and professional writing.

Course Format

This course mixes direct instruction, collaborative learning, and individual exploration.  Students will also be expected to engage in reflective practice, the ability to reflect on one’s actions in order to engage in a process of continuous learning.

preschool sand play
Weekly Discussion

Attendance is required at Weekly Discussion. Weekly Discussion is a forum for communication among students, course instructors, and the Early Childhood Laboratory (ECL), UC Davis staff. Topics pertinent to the growth and well-being of the children in your care will be addressed via lecture, videos, group discussion, and class experiences. This is an opportunity to synthesize research, theory, and practice by raising questions and voicing concerns, and by examining your own personal biases and beliefs about young children. 

Spring 2024:

Section 001—Infant/Toddler
  • Instructor: Gonzalez, Jennifer
  • Lecture: Thursday 1:10-3 pm. Eichhorn Family House
  • Lab Options:
    • Infant/Toddler, M/W 8:30 am-Noon
    • Infant/Toddler, T/R 8:30 am-Noon
  • Maximum Enrollment: 20
Section 002—Full Day Preschool
  • Instructor: TBD
  • Lecture: TH 4:10-6 pm.  268 1st Street (East House)
  • Lab Options:
    • Preschool, M/W 8:30-noon
    • Preschool, T/R 8:30-noon
  • Maximum Enrollment: 16
Section 003—Half Day Preschool
  • Instructor: Ganaden, Dana
  • Lecture: TH 4:10-6 pm. Eichhorn Family House
  • Lab Options:
    • Preschool, M/W 8:15-11:45 am
    • Preschool, T/R 8:15-11:45 am
    • Preschool, M/W 12:30-4:00 pm
    • Preschool, T/R 12:30-4:00 pm
  • Maximum enrollment: 16
Students discuss before and after each lab session

The first and last 15 minutes of each lab workday are devoted to a discussion of the daily events and observations. This Lab Discussion is an opportunity to ask questions and to share frustrations and successes. Students will be asked to apply specific content from Weekly Discussion and assigned readings to their practice. Each student is expected to take part in this discussion and to use it as an opportunity to practice group participation skills.

Reliable attendance is expected for this class. Excused absences may be made up with staff approval and, as required with illness, with a note from the UC Davis Student Health and Wellness Center or your personal doctor confirming your illness.

HDE 140L Working Syllabus.pdf