EXCERPTS
The province is providing free online access to learning resources for students and professionals in prenatal and child development, it was announced Friday.
The Science of Early Child Development (SECD) includes regularly updated living textbooks and modules that offer current research and links to practice through a convenient online platform, accessible via computer, tablet and smartphone.
“We are making a first-of-its-kind investment in the early years fields in Manitoba to increase professional development opportunities, encourage independent study, strengthen the sectors that work with children and families, and improve the quality of services for Manitoba families,” Families Minister Scott Fielding announced Friday at Red River College. “Living textbooks are a cost-effective way to continually expand knowledge, provide educational opportunities and relay the latest research for everyone involved in the early learning and child-care sector.”
The province will provide $365,000 to Red River College (RRC) through the Canada-Manitoba Early Learning and Child Care Agreement with the federal government to open up province-wide access for two living textbooks and three additional modules. This will eliminate the license fee currently required to register, which will benefit hundreds of students and teaching staff as well as early learning and child-care professionals, family child-care providers, teachers, public health staff, community organizations and any Manitobans interested in the impact of early experience on lifelong health and well-being. RRC will oversee the initiative and report to government on annual usage.
RRC researched and developed the SECD initiative in partnership with the University of Toronto and the Aga Khan Development Network. These resources are currently used in other jurisdictions but this is the first time they are being made openly available in Manitoba. The site is updated regularly and includes readings, videos of children’s programs around the world, interviews with experts, links to reports and websites, reflection questions and interactive activities. The information supports courses in the Child Care Assistant and Early Childhood Educator training programs.