Module 1 Discussion

Reflection on Prior Knowledge

Before embarking on any new learning experience, it often is helpful to reflect on what you already know about the topics to be covered. In this Discussion, you will consider your prior knowledge of operational management of child development centers and programs. To prepare for this Discussion, reflect on the following questions:

• What type of knowledge or experiences do you have with regard to day-to-day operational duties performed by managers and directors at child development centers? Specifically, what do you already know about any of the following, either through direct experience or through the observation of others?
  • Facilities management
  • Health, safety, and nutrition issues
  • Educational programming
  • Family communication
  • Marketing and public relations
  • Ethical and/or legal issues
• What do you hope to learn about operational management of child development centers in this course?
• Why do you think knowledge of these topics is important for your professional development?

With these thoughts in mind, follow the instructions below to post your response to this Discussion topic.

By Day 3 of Week 1:

Post a reflection on your prior knowledge of the operational management of child development centers. Describe any past experiences in performing or observing the performance of day to day operational duties, such as the management of facilities, health, safety, and nutrition, educational programming, family communication, marketing and public relations, and/or legal and ethical issues. Finally, describe what you aim to learn about these topics throughout this course, as well at least two reasons why you believe knowledge of these topics is important to your growth as a child development professional.

By Day 7 of Week 1:

Read a selection of your colleagues’ postings. As you read their responses, note those that you would like to respond to with advice, questions, comments, and/or encouragement.

Respond to two or more of your colleagues’ postings in any of the following ways:

• Build on something your colleague said.
• Explain why and how you see things differently.
• Ask a probing or clarifying question.
• Share an insight from having read your colleague’s posting.
• Offer and support an opinion.
• Validate an idea with your own experience.
• Expand on your colleague’s posting.
• Ask for evidence that supports the posting.

Return to this Discussion in a few days to read the responses to your initial posting. Reflect on what you learned in this activity and/or insights you gained this week.