ECED 411 - Public Policy & Advocacy

5 Credits

This course develops skills in analyzing and influencing the policies that shape the ECE field. It covers the analysis of local, state, and federal policies, conducting research to build evidence-based advocacy positions, developing multi-faceted advocacy strategies (policy briefs, testimony, community organizing), leading community partnerships for advocacy, and applying ethics to policy work.

Pre-requisite(s) EDUC& 115, EDUC& 150, ECED& 190, ECED& 160, and EDUC& 204 with min 2.0
Program Admission Required Yes Admitted Program BAS - ECE
Fees

Quarters Typically Offered
Winter Evening, Online

Designed to Serve BAS in ECE students
Active Date 20260408T14:54:13

Grading Basis Decimal Grade
Class Limit 24
Contact Hours: Lecture 55
Total Contact Hours 55
Degree Distributions:
ProfTech Course Yes
Course Outline

The Policy Landscape: Analyzing the local, state, and federal policies (including funding streams, IDEA, and licensing) that shape the early childhood education system and impact equity.
Building the Evidence: Conducting research and interpreting data to identify systemic gaps, assess community needs, and construct a fact-based argument for specific policy changes.
Strategic Communication & Campaigning: Developing the practical tools of advocacy, including writing persuasive policy briefs, delivering legislative testimony, and utilizing media to influence decision-makers.
Community Organizing & Coalition Building: Strategies for leading collaborative efforts, mobilizing diverse stakeholders, and building power through authentic community partnerships.
Ethical Leadership in the Political Arena: Navigating the power dynamics, moral complexities, and professional responsibilities inherent in policy work using a reflective ethical framework.

Student Learning Outcomes
Analyze the impact of local, state, and federal policies (e.g., funding, IDEA, WACs) on equitable outcomes for children, families, and the ECE profession.

Conduct research and data analysis to develop an evidence-based position on a specific ECE policy issue.

Develop and implement a multi-faceted advocacy strategy (e.g., policy brief, testimony, community organizing) to influence policy change.

Lead a collaborative partnership with community stakeholders to build and sustain an advocacy initiative.

Apply professional ethics and a reflective framework when navigating the political and moral complexities of advocacy.