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Early Childhood Education

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Academic Programs

Early Childhood Education - Associate in Applied Science (042)

This program aligns to the AAS/Gateways to Opportunity ECE and ITC Level 4 credentials.

The Early Childhood Education program provides the academic background and practical experience for people interested in careers in education, including infant, preschool and school-age child care in early childhood centers, family child care homes, parent education, and early childhood program supervision. Coursework focuses on theory, research and program practice pertaining to children prenatal to early school age. Students will have the opportunity to observe and assess children's behaviors and to work directly with children in a supervised setting. This program provides a comprehensive course of study, including physical, cognitive, social and emotional development of young children, curriculum development, literature and language arts, creative activities for teaching art, music, math and science, behavior guidance, health and nutrition, and one supervised practicum experience.

Credential Program Description

Students enrolled in Early Childhood programs at Sauk Valley Community College will be eligible to complete credentials through Gateways to Opportunity Illinois Professional Development System for ECE and ITC Levels 2, 3 and 4. Benefits of this credentialing process increase a student's employability and make students eligible for scholarship opportunities and wage differentials. Students must earn a "C" or better in all ECE courses used to fulfill Gateways to Opportunity  credentialing requirements. 

The Early Childhood Access Consortium for Equity allows for transfer of ECE community college career degrees in their entirety (including Gateways Level 4 and a 2.0/4.0 CGPA) to participating four-year schools with junior-level standing.

Work and Employment

The early childhood education program is designed to educate professionals for a diverse and challenging field. Employment opportunities for graduates of the early childhood education program are very positive, whether pursuing a career in a group day care, preschool setting, or in family care.

Criminal History Check Policy

Illinois law requires licensed early childhood programs to conduct a criminal background investigation on applicants for employment. Employment of individuals who have been convicted of committing or attempting to commit offenses that may put children in harm's way is prohibited. Laws vary according to the agency and their licensing body.

Students who perform classroom observations through coursework at Sauk Valley Community College may be required by the selected school/site to undergo a criminal background check prior to placement. Students may be denied at any observation site based on the results of that check.

Students who feel their criminal background may exclude them from observation or employment should seek counseling with SVCC faculty or advising staff early in their program to determine how it may affect their participation and eligibility.

Follow this link for career information.

Program Contacts at Sauk Valley Community College

  • Academic Advising, 815-835-6354
  • Beth Smaka, Assistant Professor of Early Childhood Education, 815-835-6388

Total Hours Required - 62-63 Hours

Major Field Requirements - 46-47 Hours

  • ECE109 - Found of Infant & Toddler Care ( 4 Semester Hours)

    This course provides students with an overview of the development of children birth through age three. Students will explore physical, social, emotional, cognitive, and linguistic growth, as well as factors that affect learning and development. Emphasis will be placed on the role of family and community partnership in effective care-giving programs. Students will also design developmentally appropriate curriculum, including observation and formal and informal assessment techniques. Students will demonstrate understanding of the Infant/Toddler Environment Rating Scale (ITERS) by performing an evaluation in an infant/toddler classroom setting. Students will participate in a minimum of 50 hours of required field experience. Prerequisite: None Semester hour(s): 4 Lecture/Lab Hours: 4 lec/week

  • ECE114 - Child Care and Development ( 3 Semester Hours)

    This course provides an overview of the theory and principles of human growth and development from conception and prenatal development through age 8. Content includes an in-depth study of the inter-relatedness of physical, social/emotional, cognitive, language and aesthetic aspects of development. Development is studied in the context of family, gender, culture, language, ability, socio-economics, diversity and society. Current research and major developmental theories are examined with an emphasis on the implications for early childhood professional practice. Students are required to complete 3 observations at an approved preschool site. Prerequisite: None Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI) ECE 912 Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

  • ECE115 - Intro to Early Childhood Educ ( 3 Semester Hours)

    This survey course provides an overview of early childhood care and education including historical and cultural perspectives, organization, structure, programming, and evidence-based practices. Professional and evidence-based practices of highly qualified early childhood educators are outlined with an emphasis on their ability to enhance development and learning of each and every child between the ages of birth and eight. Considerations for diversity of culture, language, race, socio- economic status, gender, ethnicity, and ability will be included. Students will spend a minimum of 15 hours of observation in diverse early childhood settings. Prerequisite: None Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

  • ECE118 - Parent-Teachr-Child-Comm Relat ( 3 Semester Hours)

    This course focuses on the child in the context of family, school, and community. An analysis of the contemporary American family will be discussed, with emphasis on the individual family interactions within the larger societal context. The course will examine the interplay of diverse cultures, lifestyles, language, and communication with the role of school and other community institutions. Students will gain an understanding of their professional role in supporting practices that strengthen respectful family/child relationships through effective use of community and family resources. Prerequisite: None Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI) ECE 915 Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

  • ECE202 - Lang/Literacy Dev/Young Childr ( 3 Semester Hours)

    Students will be introduced to the perspectives, concepts, and methods of language and literacy development in young children. Students will focus on the speech and language development of young children ages 0-8, as well as the practices to individualize teaching to support language and literacy development in a diverse classroom. Typical and atypical language development; the diverse factors that influence language and literacy development; developmentally appropriate methods, materials, and environments; and supporting English language learners will be emphasized. Prerequisite: None Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

  • ECE207 - Math for the Young Child ( 3 Semester Hours)

    This course is an exploration of early mathematical content and concepts that are relevant to young children ages 0-6. Students will learn what mathematics looks like during the early years and learn strategies to recognize and promote mathematical understanding in young children. Particular emphasis will be on the following concepts: numbers, measurement, shapes, patterns, spatial relations, analysis of data. Prerequisite: None Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

    OR

    MAT106 - Applied Mathematics ( 3 Semester Hours)

    Applied mathematics is a fundamental course for students in technical and career programs. The course includes fundamental mathematics, algebra, geometry, right triangle trigonometry, business mathematics, and statistical concepts which are applied to the solution of practical problems. Scientific notation, metrics and use of the calculator are also covered. Prerequisite: a grade of C or better in MAT 075 or MAT 078 (or higher) OR appropriate placement (see current placement score prerequisite chart) 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

    OR

    HIGHER  
  • ECE228 - Child Health-Nutrition-Safety ( 3 Semester Hours)

    This course provides an overview of the health, safety and nutritional needs of young children and early childhood practices to ensure the health and well-being of each child in a group setting. Content includes roles and responsibilities of adults in meeting children's diverse needs, the promotion of healthy life style practices, understanding common childhood illnesses and injuries, meeting health, nutrition and safety standards, and planning nutritious meals that are appropriate for each child. Prerequisite: None Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

  • ECE240 - Observ & Assess Young Children ( 3 Semester Hours)

    This course focuses on authentic, alternative, classroom-based assessment on young children and how to appropriately use standardized test information. The course will further provide the student with the knowledge and skills to interpret and use the information gained to plan curriculum that is responsive to and supportive of children's learning and development. Students will have the opportunity to engage in assessment processes through means of classroom observations, providing each student with a stronger understanding of child development skills. Students learn about and explore a variety of age, individually, linguistically and culturally appropriate formal and informal assessments to gather and share information on each child's skills, abilities, interests and needs, birth through age 8. This class requires a 20 hour observation clinical component. Prerequisite: None Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

  • ECE250 - Early Childhood Practicum ( 3 Semester Hours)

    A supervised field experience designed to utilize and develop the student's learned training and educational skills in a chosen field. All students are required to spend at least six hours per week at a career education site as agreed upon with the advisor for a total of 90 hours minimum. Prerequisite: Students may register for practicum only with the consent of the SVCC practicum coordinator and the student's assigned academic counselor. Completion of first and second semester courses in the ECE suggested program required. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 6 lab/week

  • ECE275 - Curric Dev Early Child Classrm ( 3 Semester Hours)

    The principles involved in planning, implementing, and evaluating developmentally appropriate, evidence-based curriculum for young children are studied. The course focuses on relationships among developmental theory, philosophy, practice, and development of curriculum based on the needs and interests of young children including those who are culturally, linguistically, and ability diverse. The analysis of a wide range of early childhood curriculum models is emphasized. Field experiences are required. Prerequisite: None Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

  • EDU102 - Computer Education for Teacher ( 3 Semester Hours)

    This course is designed to meet the needs of education majors. This course will introduce students to the fundamentals and skills necessary to effectively integrate technology into teaching. This course is designed for the student with minimal computer experience. Prerequisite: None 3 Semester hour(s) 3 lec/week

    OR

    CIS109 - Introduction to Computers ( 3 Semester Hours)

    This introductory course consists of the study of computer hardware, software, operating systems, communications, networking, Internet, systems and program development life cycles and their role in business decision making. The use of Internet, multimedia, security, and ethics will be emphasized throughout the course. In addition, laboratory experience will be gained with a survey of Microsoft Windows and business computer software applications programs in word processing, electronic spreadsheets, database management, presentation graphics, and Internet. Prerequisite: None. Students having no experience with computers are encouraged to first take CIS 100-Keyboarding 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): BUS 902 Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec, 2 lab/week

     
  • EDU210 - Diversity in Education ( 3 Semester Hours)

    This course is designed to introduce pre-service teachers to the basic principles and foundations of educating for diversity. The course will explore schooling in and for global society. Emphasis will be on material evaluation and selection, curricular design, and the relationship between diversity, classroom procedure, and educational policy Prerequisite: None 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

  • EDU220 - Educ of the Exceptional Child ( 3 Semester Hours)

    An introductory overview of the field of special education and the educational and evidence-based strategies that support children with exceptional cognitive, social, physical, and emotional needs. Services and interventions will be examined, including federal and state requirements for eligibility. Students will be introduced to the various exceptionality categories that occur in the population including an overview of characteristics of individuals in each category, with emphasis on category-appropriate interventions and teaching strategies. Prerequisite: None 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): ECE 913 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

  • EDU221 - Children's Literature ( 3 Semester Hours)

    This course introduces students to the history, themes, form, and genres of literature for children. Special emphasis on the analysis and evaluation of literature for children, as well as the social and cultural contexts that have influenced the creation and selection of literature for children. Prerequisite: None 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): H3918 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

    OR

    LAN161 - Beginning Spanish I ( 4 Semester Hours)

    A study of functional Spanish with emphasis on speaking the language. Practice in reading and writing simple Spanish. Prerequisite: None 4 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 4 lec/week

    OR

    HIGHER  
  • PED220 - Rhythms & Games for Children ( 3 Semester Hours)

    Methods of administering, supervising and teaching the major areas of rhythms, games, testing and apparatus in the elementary school grades. The course is designed to fit the needs of the classroom teacher in approaching the area of learning. Prerequisite: None 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lecture

General Education Requirements - 15 Hours

  • Communications (ENG 101 and COM 131 Required) 6 Semester hour(s)
  • Physical or Life Science (BIO 120 Recommended) 3 Semester hour(s)
  • Social and Behavioral Sciences (PSY 103 & SOC 251 Required) 6 Semester hour(s)

SVCC Requirement - 1 Hours

  • FYE101 - First Year Experience ( 1 Semester Hours)

    The focus of this course is how to be successful in college. Study skills, goal setting, academic planning, time and money management, and information research skills are among the core topics included in this course. Within a supportive environment, students will share their college experiences and develop connections with fellow students and SVCC staff. Prerequisite: None 1 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 1 lec/week

Suggested Program

First Semester - 16 Hours

  • BIO120 - Environmental Health ( 3 Semester Hours)

    An examination of the environmental effects on human physiological systems, resulting in diverse problems such as heart disease, cancer, and other health related concerns. This course is designed to assist the student in making informed, responsible decisions affecting personal and environmental wellness. Prerequisite: None 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

  • ECE114 - Child Care and Development ( 3 Semester Hours)

    This course provides an overview of the theory and principles of human growth and development from conception and prenatal development through age 8. Content includes an in-depth study of the inter-relatedness of physical, social/emotional, cognitive, language and aesthetic aspects of development. Development is studied in the context of family, gender, culture, language, ability, socio-economics, diversity and society. Current research and major developmental theories are examined with an emphasis on the implications for early childhood professional practice. Students are required to complete 3 observations at an approved preschool site. Prerequisite: None Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI) ECE 912 Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

  • ECE115 - Intro to Early Childhood Educ ( 3 Semester Hours)

    This survey course provides an overview of early childhood care and education including historical and cultural perspectives, organization, structure, programming, and evidence-based practices. Professional and evidence-based practices of highly qualified early childhood educators are outlined with an emphasis on their ability to enhance development and learning of each and every child between the ages of birth and eight. Considerations for diversity of culture, language, race, socio- economic status, gender, ethnicity, and ability will be included. Students will spend a minimum of 15 hours of observation in diverse early childhood settings. Prerequisite: None Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

  • FYE101 - First Year Experience ( 1 Semester Hours)

    The focus of this course is how to be successful in college. Study skills, goal setting, academic planning, time and money management, and information research skills are among the core topics included in this course. Within a supportive environment, students will share their college experiences and develop connections with fellow students and SVCC staff. Prerequisite: None 1 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 1 lec/week

  • PED220 - Rhythms & Games for Children ( 3 Semester Hours)

    Methods of administering, supervising and teaching the major areas of rhythms, games, testing and apparatus in the elementary school grades. The course is designed to fit the needs of the classroom teacher in approaching the area of learning. Prerequisite: None 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lecture

  • PSY103 - Introduction to Psychology ( 3 Semester Hours)

    This course is designed to introduce the student to major concepts, theories, principles, and research in the field of psychology. This course will survey the scientific study of human and animal characteristics and behavior. Major topics from biological, behavioral, cognitive, personality, developmental, abnormal, and social psychology theory and research will be emphasized. Universal characteristics and individual differences will be explored Prerequisite: None 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): S6 900 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

Second Semester - 15 Hours

  • ECE202 - Lang/Literacy Dev/Young Childr ( 3 Semester Hours)

    Students will be introduced to the perspectives, concepts, and methods of language and literacy development in young children. Students will focus on the speech and language development of young children ages 0-8, as well as the practices to individualize teaching to support language and literacy development in a diverse classroom. Typical and atypical language development; the diverse factors that influence language and literacy development; developmentally appropriate methods, materials, and environments; and supporting English language learners will be emphasized. Prerequisite: None Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

  • ECE275 - Curric Dev Early Child Classrm ( 3 Semester Hours)

    The principles involved in planning, implementing, and evaluating developmentally appropriate, evidence-based curriculum for young children are studied. The course focuses on relationships among developmental theory, philosophy, practice, and development of curriculum based on the needs and interests of young children including those who are culturally, linguistically, and ability diverse. The analysis of a wide range of early childhood curriculum models is emphasized. Field experiences are required. Prerequisite: None Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

  • EDU210 - Diversity in Education ( 3 Semester Hours)

    This course is designed to introduce pre-service teachers to the basic principles and foundations of educating for diversity. The course will explore schooling in and for global society. Emphasis will be on material evaluation and selection, curricular design, and the relationship between diversity, classroom procedure, and educational policy Prerequisite: None 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

  • ENG101 - Composition I ( 3 Semester Hours)

    This course (1) develops awareness of the writing process; (2) provides inventional, organizational, and editorial strategies; (3) stresses the variety of uses for writing; and (4) emphasizes critical skills in reading, thinking, and writing. Prerequisite: Required placement score on approved English placement test, high school unweighted GPA of 3.0 or higher, or a grade of C or higher in ELA 099. 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): C1 900 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

  • SOC251 - Human Sexuality and Marriage ( 3 Semester Hours)

    This course is a survey of the contemporary family from historical and cross-cultural perspectives. This course explores the psychological, sociological, and biological perspectives on human sexuality, dating, marriage, singles, families, as well as separation & divorce. Topics addressed will include relationship types, trends in mate selection, marriage, singlehood, family functions & structures, uncoupling, child rearing, work, gender, power, conflict, and communication within the family. Prerequisite: None, although either PSY 103 or SOC 111 is highly recommended 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): S7 902 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

Third Semester - 16-17 Hours

  • ECE109 - Found of Infant & Toddler Care ( 4 Semester Hours)

    This course provides students with an overview of the development of children birth through age three. Students will explore physical, social, emotional, cognitive, and linguistic growth, as well as factors that affect learning and development. Emphasis will be placed on the role of family and community partnership in effective care-giving programs. Students will also design developmentally appropriate curriculum, including observation and formal and informal assessment techniques. Students will demonstrate understanding of the Infant/Toddler Environment Rating Scale (ITERS) by performing an evaluation in an infant/toddler classroom setting. Students will participate in a minimum of 50 hours of required field experience. Prerequisite: None Semester hour(s): 4 Lecture/Lab Hours: 4 lec/week

  • ECE118 - Parent-Teachr-Child-Comm Relat ( 3 Semester Hours)

    This course focuses on the child in the context of family, school, and community. An analysis of the contemporary American family will be discussed, with emphasis on the individual family interactions within the larger societal context. The course will examine the interplay of diverse cultures, lifestyles, language, and communication with the role of school and other community institutions. Students will gain an understanding of their professional role in supporting practices that strengthen respectful family/child relationships through effective use of community and family resources. Prerequisite: None Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI) ECE 915 Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

  • ECE228 - Child Health-Nutrition-Safety ( 3 Semester Hours)

    This course provides an overview of the health, safety and nutritional needs of young children and early childhood practices to ensure the health and well-being of each child in a group setting. Content includes roles and responsibilities of adults in meeting children's diverse needs, the promotion of healthy life style practices, understanding common childhood illnesses and injuries, meeting health, nutrition and safety standards, and planning nutritious meals that are appropriate for each child. Prerequisite: None Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

  • EDU220 - Educ of the Exceptional Child ( 3 Semester Hours)

    An introductory overview of the field of special education and the educational and evidence-based strategies that support children with exceptional cognitive, social, physical, and emotional needs. Services and interventions will be examined, including federal and state requirements for eligibility. Students will be introduced to the various exceptionality categories that occur in the population including an overview of characteristics of individuals in each category, with emphasis on category-appropriate interventions and teaching strategies. Prerequisite: None 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): ECE 913 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

  • EDU221 - Children's Literature ( 3 Semester Hours)

    This course introduces students to the history, themes, form, and genres of literature for children. Special emphasis on the analysis and evaluation of literature for children, as well as the social and cultural contexts that have influenced the creation and selection of literature for children. Prerequisite: None 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): H3918 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

    OR

    LAN161 - Beginning Spanish I ( 4 Semester Hours)

    A study of functional Spanish with emphasis on speaking the language. Practice in reading and writing simple Spanish. Prerequisite: None 4 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 4 lec/week

      OR

      HIGHER
         

      Fourth Semester - 15 Hours

      • ECE207 - Math for the Young Child ( 3 Semester Hours)

        This course is an exploration of early mathematical content and concepts that are relevant to young children ages 0-6. Students will learn what mathematics looks like during the early years and learn strategies to recognize and promote mathematical understanding in young children. Particular emphasis will be on the following concepts: numbers, measurement, shapes, patterns, spatial relations, analysis of data. Prerequisite: None Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

        OR

        MAT106 - Applied Mathematics ( 3 Semester Hours)

        Applied mathematics is a fundamental course for students in technical and career programs. The course includes fundamental mathematics, algebra, geometry, right triangle trigonometry, business mathematics, and statistical concepts which are applied to the solution of practical problems. Scientific notation, metrics and use of the calculator are also covered. Prerequisite: a grade of C or better in MAT 075 or MAT 078 (or higher) OR appropriate placement (see current placement score prerequisite chart) 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

          OR

          HIGHER
             
          • COM131 - Intro to Oral Communication ( 3 Semester Hours)

            The oral communication course combines communication theory with the practice of oral communication skills. The course: (1) develops awareness of the communication process; (2) provides inventional, organizational, and expressive strategies; (3) promotes understanding of and adaptation to a variety of communication contexts; and (4) emphasizes critical skills in listening, reading, thinking, and speaking. Prerequisite: None 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): C2 900 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

          • ECE240 - Observ & Assess Young Children ( 3 Semester Hours)

            This course focuses on authentic, alternative, classroom-based assessment on young children and how to appropriately use standardized test information. The course will further provide the student with the knowledge and skills to interpret and use the information gained to plan curriculum that is responsive to and supportive of children's learning and development. Students will have the opportunity to engage in assessment processes through means of classroom observations, providing each student with a stronger understanding of child development skills. Students learn about and explore a variety of age, individually, linguistically and culturally appropriate formal and informal assessments to gather and share information on each child's skills, abilities, interests and needs, birth through age 8. This class requires a 20 hour observation clinical component. Prerequisite: None Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

          • ECE250 - Early Childhood Practicum ( 3 Semester Hours)

            A supervised field experience designed to utilize and develop the student's learned training and educational skills in a chosen field. All students are required to spend at least six hours per week at a career education site as agreed upon with the advisor for a total of 90 hours minimum. Prerequisite: Students may register for practicum only with the consent of the SVCC practicum coordinator and the student's assigned academic counselor. Completion of first and second semester courses in the ECE suggested program required. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 6 lab/week

          • EDU102 - Computer Education for Teacher ( 3 Semester Hours)

            This course is designed to meet the needs of education majors. This course will introduce students to the fundamentals and skills necessary to effectively integrate technology into teaching. This course is designed for the student with minimal computer experience. Prerequisite: None 3 Semester hour(s) 3 lec/week

            OR

            CIS109 - Introduction to Computers ( 3 Semester Hours)

            This introductory course consists of the study of computer hardware, software, operating systems, communications, networking, Internet, systems and program development life cycles and their role in business decision making. The use of Internet, multimedia, security, and ethics will be emphasized throughout the course. In addition, laboratory experience will be gained with a survey of Microsoft Windows and business computer software applications programs in word processing, electronic spreadsheets, database management, presentation graphics, and Internet. Prerequisite: None. Students having no experience with computers are encouraged to first take CIS 100-Keyboarding 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): BUS 902 Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec, 2 lab/week