The Joan and Irving Harris Center for Early Childhood Education’s unique approach to teacher preparation is at the forefront of education today. This approach was created from the belief that both a liberal education which embraces the arts as central to the human experience, and professional preparation, are essential in preparing those who work with children.  It combines an arts integrated professional education core with an emphasis on the Reggio Emilia Approach and a focused study in the visual arts, performing arts, or language and culture. 

Through generous contributions from the Joan and Irving Harris Foundation, scholarships are awarded to students who show promise in becoming exceptional teachers, and to support study abroad at Reggio Emilia Schools in Italy.

URMI Project

Work is still underway on the development of the Integrated Portfolio Assessment System (IPAS) for iPad, which is scheduled to roll out in pilot projects this fall. Columbia faculty members and alumna from both the Early Childhood Education Program and the Interactive Arts and Media Department are developing this system that will bring authentic assessment into the 21st century. More here