This lab-based course will provide opportunities to gain practical experiences in a variety of early childhood education settings. These include observations, analysis and discussion in relation to the examination of contemporary Early Childhood Education theories in EDEL 457. Many of the field experience sites require all volunteers to have a criminal record check and a child welfare check. Prior to beginning this course it is recommended that all students have these checks completed. Prerequisites: EDEL 355 or consent of Department. Students must be registered concurrently in EDEL 457. Students cannot receive credit for both EDEL 458 and 456.