Upon successful completion of the learning experience, students will be able to: identify significant factors that have influenced curriculum development in early childhood education; examine curriculum models that have been used in early childhood programs; critique early childhood curriculum models and curricula in light of issues of culture, philosophy, content, and implementation; generate an early childhood curriculum framework that reflects best practices to promote the growth and development of all children; describe distinguishing features of major early childhood curricula models and programs; demonstrate leadership ability as a professional educator for analyzing curriculum materials and models with particular attention to assessment, content, and alignment to state and national standards; synthesize knowledge of evaluation research involving the comparisons of curriculum models; and examine the relationship among theory, research, and practice regarding major curriculum models.