The Early Childhood Center
Fieldwork: Student Assistants at the ECC
The involvement of the College’s students is one of the most unique, enriching aspects of the Early Childhood Center’s program. Sarah Lawrence graduate students working toward a master’s degree in the Art of Teaching,Child Development, and Dance/Movement Therapy, as well as undergraduate psychology students, participate in our classrooms as fieldwork assistants. They work directly with the ECC faculty, becoming a vital part of the classroom.
Fieldwork assistants are participant observers—fully immersing themselves in classroom life. Their presence makes possible a high ratio of adults to children; an increased diversity in staffing; and an enhanced curriculum through their interdisciplinary interests.
Approximately 50 college students—primarily from Sarah Lawrence, along with guest students from Westchester Community College's early childhood program—are assigned to the ECC throughout the school year. The ECC’s director interviews and places each fieldwork student, and the ECC faculty guide their daily interactions in the classroom. Many Sarah Lawrence students go on from this experience to become teachers, social workers, therapists, and researchers in child development.
Learn more about what makes the ECC a celebrated laboratory school— and how this benefits your child.