{"id":25294,"date":"2025-07-20T20:33:47","date_gmt":"2025-07-20T20:33:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/cehhs-wds-dev.utk.edu\/tpte-dev\/?page_id=25294"},"modified":"2026-06-25T10:58:16","modified_gmt":"2026-06-25T14:58:16","slug":"interdisciplinary-early-childhood","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/about-tpte\/interdisciplinary-learning-and-teaching-ilt-in-early-childhood-design-and-technology-and-stem-unit\/interdisciplinary-early-childhood\/","title":{"rendered":"Interdisciplinary Early Childhood"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-group fw_orange--banner is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns alignfull banner__img is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignfull size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1072\" src=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/07\/elc9-copy-scaled.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-25315\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/07\/elc9-copy-scaled.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/07\/elc9-copy-300x126.webp 300w, https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/07\/elc9-copy-1024x429.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/07\/elc9-copy-768x322.webp 768w, https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/07\/elc9-copy-1536x643.webp 1536w, https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/07\/elc9-copy-2048x857.webp 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns alignwide banner_content is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><em><em>INTERDISCIPLINARY<\/em><\/em><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Early Childhood<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Interdisciplinary Early Childhood program pathways are perfect for individuals who are passionate about working with young children in a variety of contexts. With multiple pathways and degree options for undergraduate students, students with associate degrees, graduate students, and those already working in the early childhood field, IEC programs are responsive and dynamic for a wide range of students both on campus and through distance education. All lEC students will gain invaluable knowledge and hands-on experience, combining coursework with real-world experiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"mailto:tpteinfo@utk.edu\">Request More Info<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:45px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull tab-box has-light-background-color has-background is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns alignwide tab-box__rw is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list tab-box__list\">\n<li><a href=\"#programs\">Degree Programs<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#faculty\">Faculty<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#work\">Recent Work From Faculty<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Research<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Early Childhood refers to birth to age 8 and is a critical time of learning and development. Faculty and students in this area engage in research that explores how young children learn and grow in diverse contexts. Areas of focus include inclusive practices, family and community partnerships, early learning environments, and the role of play, language, and equity in development. Through research, we aim to inform practice, influence policy, and improve outcomes for all children and their families.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"programs\">Programs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Graduates of Interdisciplinary Early Childhood are prepared to support young children through developmentally responsive, inclusive practices. They create engaging learning environments, honor each child\u2019s unique strengths and experiences, build strong family partnerships, and advocate for children, families, and the field of early childhood education. We offer both undergraduate and graduate licensure pathways and programs of study.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Undergraduate<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Interdisciplinary Early Childhood offers a Bachelor of Science (B. S.) degree, with or without licensure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"fancyLink wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/undergraduate-programs\/majors-and-minors\/\" id=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/undergraduate-programs\/majors-and-minors\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">More on B. S. in Education focusing on Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education, Birth to Kindergarten Licensure<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"fancyLink wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/catalog.utk.edu\/preview_program.php?catoid=56&amp;poid=36454&amp;returnto=12035\" id=\"https:\/\/catalog.utk.edu\/preview_program.php?catoid=56&amp;poid=36454&amp;returnto=12035\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">More on B. S. in Education focusing on Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education, Early Care and Education (non-licensure)<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"fancyLink wp-block-paragraph\">For more information on the undergraduate pathways, contact: Melody K. Hobbs, <a href=\"mailto:mhobbs@utk.edu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">mhobbs@utk.edu<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-accordion-toggle-accordion-toggle  root-eb-accordion-gbxgh\"><div class=\"eb-parent-wrapper eb-parent-eb-accordion-gbxgh \"><div class=\"eb-accordion-container eb-accordion-gbxgh\" data-accordion-type=\"accordion\" data-tab-icon=\"fas fa-angle-right\" data-expanded-icon=\"fas fa-angle-down\" data-transition-duration=\"500\"><div class=\"eb-accordion-inner\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-accordion-toggle-accordion-item eb-accordion-item-csf4p eb-accordion-wrapper\" data-clickable=\"false\"><div class=\"eb-accordion-title-wrapper eb-accordion-title-wrapper-eb-accordion-gbxgh\"><span class=\"eb-accordion-icon-wrapper eb-accordion-icon-wrapper-eb-accordion-gbxgh\"><span class=\"fas fa-angle-right eb-accordion-icon\"><\/span><\/span><div class=\"eb-accordion-title-content-wrap title-content-eb-accordion-gbxgh\"><h3 class=\"eb-accordion-title\">Learn more about our UG programs<\/h3><\/div><\/div><div class=\"eb-accordion-content-wrapper eb-accordion-content-wrapper-eb-accordion-gbxgh\"><div class=\"eb-accordion-content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We offer two Integrated Birth to Kindergarten (BK) programs. One is offered on campus and the other is offered through Distance Education.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>On Campus Program<\/strong><br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The undergraduate Early Childhood Education Birth-K Program in TPTE is designed to prepare students to obtain the Tennessee Early Development and Learning Birth-K teacher license in order to teach children with and without disabilities, birth through age five. The Birth-K courses emphasize studying child development in context and developing fundamental instructional strategies within authentic field experiences.<br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Birth-K program contains courses designed to meet state licensure requirements and emphasizes learning through three basic tenets: (1) understanding child development theory in context, (2) examining early childhood education concepts that impact teaching and learning, and (3) providing opportunities to teach in a variety of settings. Once students have progressed into the program and successfully completed the core courses and requirements, students participate in a semester-long student teaching practicum (IEC 472).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Distance Education Program<\/strong><br>The undergraduate PreK-K Program in the Department of Child and Family Studies is designed to prepare students to obtain the Tennessee Early Development and Learning PreK-K teacher license in order to teach children with and without disabilities, birth through age five. The PreK\u2013K courses emphasize studying child development in context and developing fundamental instructional strategies within authentic field experiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">More about the program:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Our program is built on flexibility for individualized learning needs, including pathways for:\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Students with two-year degrees<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Students with four-year degrees<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tennessee teachers with certification in another grade span or specialty area<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Currently enrolling online students with a minimum of an associate\u2019s degree and\/or 60 transferable credits<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Courses offered continuously across fall, spring, and summer semesters<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Take courses part-time or full-time, based on your own needs and interests<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For more information, contact:<br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Program Coordinator, Melody Hobbs: <a href=\"mailto:mhobbs@utk.edu\">mhobbs@utk.edu<\/a>&nbsp;<br>Admin. Program Specialist, Rachel Heston: <a href=\"mailto:rxb289@utk.edu\">rxb289@utk.edu<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Graduate<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Interdisciplinary Early Childhood offers both licensure and non-licensure Master of Science (M. S.) degree concentrations as well as a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph. D.) degree that provides opportunities for focused study in Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group fancyLinkGroup is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"fancyLink wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/graduate-programs\/degrees-and-certificates\/\" id=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/graduate-programs\/degrees-and-certificates\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">More on M. S. in Teacher Education focusing on Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education, PreK-3rd Grade &#8211; Licensure with Professional Internship<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"fancyLink wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/graduate-programs\/degrees-and-certificates\/\">More on M. S. in Teacher Education focusing on Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education, Birth-Kindergarten Grade &#8211; Licensure with Practitioner (Job-Embedded) Pathway<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"fancyLink wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/graduate-programs\/degrees-and-certificates\/\" id=\"https:\/\/catalog.utk.edu\/preview_program.php?catoid=55&amp;poid=35222\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">More on M. S. in Teacher Education focusing on Interdisciplinary Early Childhood &#8211; Advanced Educational Studies (non-licensure)<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"fancyLink wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/graduate-programs\/degrees-and-certificates\/#phd-areas\">More on Ph. D. in Teacher Education focusing on Interdisciplinary Early Childhood<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"fancyLink wp-block-paragraph\">For more information on the graduate pathways, contact: Melanie Roberts at <a href=\"mailto:mrobe135@utk.edu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">mrobe135@utk.edu<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Frequently Asked Questions about our PreK-3rd Grade Licensure Program<\/strong>:<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-accordion-toggle-accordion-toggle  root-eb-accordion-rf49p\"><div class=\"eb-parent-wrapper eb-parent-eb-accordion-rf49p \"><div class=\"eb-accordion-container eb-accordion-rf49p\" data-accordion-type=\"accordion\" data-tab-icon=\"fas fa-angle-right\" data-expanded-icon=\"fas fa-angle-down\" data-transition-duration=\"500\"><div class=\"eb-accordion-inner\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-accordion-toggle-accordion-item eb-accordion-item-itbt5 eb-accordion-wrapper\" data-clickable=\"false\"><div class=\"eb-accordion-title-wrapper eb-accordion-title-wrapper-eb-accordion-rf49p\"><span class=\"eb-accordion-icon-wrapper eb-accordion-icon-wrapper-eb-accordion-rf49p\"><span class=\"fas fa-angle-right eb-accordion-icon\"><\/span><\/span><div class=\"eb-accordion-title-content-wrap title-content-eb-accordion-rf49p\"><h3 class=\"eb-accordion-title\"><strong>How is the Integrated PreK-3rd Grade program different from an elementary education major?<\/strong><\/h3><\/div><\/div><div class=\"eb-accordion-content-wrapper eb-accordion-content-wrapper-eb-accordion-rf49p\"><div class=\"eb-accordion-content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Great question! The Integrated IEC PreK-3rd Grade program focuses on the holistic development of children in the critical period of birth through age 8. This means that IEC students learn about child development, culturally responsive pedagogy, family dynamics impacting children\u2019s early experiences, and much more! Students tend to choose the IEC pathway due to an interest in the holistic view of children and childhood.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-accordion-toggle-accordion-item eb-accordion-item-evech eb-accordion-wrapper\" data-clickable=\"false\"><div class=\"eb-accordion-title-wrapper eb-accordion-title-wrapper-eb-accordion-rf49p\"><span class=\"eb-accordion-icon-wrapper eb-accordion-icon-wrapper-eb-accordion-rf49p\"><span class=\"fas fa-angle-right eb-accordion-icon\"><\/span><\/span><div class=\"eb-accordion-title-content-wrap title-content-eb-accordion-rf49p\"><h3 class=\"eb-accordion-title\"><strong>Is the IEC program new?<\/strong><\/h3><\/div><\/div><div class=\"eb-accordion-content-wrapper eb-accordion-content-wrapper-eb-accordion-rf49p\"><div class=\"eb-accordion-content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In name, yes! In practice, no; we\u2019ve been evolving as a program for over 90 years!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><br>The IEC program recently moved to the Department of Theory and Practice in Teacher Education from our former home in Child and Family Studies due to a reorganization within the College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences. With this move, we lost our history and web presence for a time, but we assure you, we are here and never left!<br><br><a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/uj49miO0Z6A?si=VE5a2w9pNYdy97LS\">Check out this video<\/a> that includes lots of information that is still true today, even though our program is more expansive with the addition of early childhood special education and our new name.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-accordion-toggle-accordion-item eb-accordion-item-a7vcu eb-accordion-wrapper\" data-clickable=\"false\"><div class=\"eb-accordion-title-wrapper eb-accordion-title-wrapper-eb-accordion-rf49p\"><span class=\"eb-accordion-icon-wrapper eb-accordion-icon-wrapper-eb-accordion-rf49p\"><span class=\"fas fa-angle-right eb-accordion-icon\"><\/span><\/span><div class=\"eb-accordion-title-content-wrap title-content-eb-accordion-rf49p\"><h3 class=\"eb-accordion-title\"><strong>Does it really take 5 years to complete the program?<\/strong><\/h3><\/div><\/div><div class=\"eb-accordion-content-wrapper eb-accordion-content-wrapper-eb-accordion-rf49p\"><div class=\"eb-accordion-content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. Because PreK-3 students leave the program with a bachelor\u2019s and master\u2019s degree, along with dual licensure (early childhood education and early childhood special education), the program does take a full five years to complete. The fifth year of the program includes a full-year internship in a public school setting along with final coursework required for teacher licensure in Tennessee.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-accordion-toggle-accordion-item eb-accordion-item-lj3j8 eb-accordion-wrapper\" data-clickable=\"false\"><div class=\"eb-accordion-title-wrapper eb-accordion-title-wrapper-eb-accordion-rf49p\"><span class=\"eb-accordion-icon-wrapper eb-accordion-icon-wrapper-eb-accordion-rf49p\"><span class=\"fas fa-angle-right eb-accordion-icon\"><\/span><\/span><div class=\"eb-accordion-title-content-wrap title-content-eb-accordion-rf49p\"><h3 class=\"eb-accordion-title\"><strong>Where do graduates end up working?\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3><\/div><\/div><div class=\"eb-accordion-content-wrapper eb-accordion-content-wrapper-eb-accordion-rf49p\"><div class=\"eb-accordion-content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many IEC graduates teach preschool, kindergarten, first, second, and third grade in public and private school programs. Graduates also teach infants-preschoolers in Head Start programs or private early childhood programs. Some graduates eventually lead early childhood programs or return to school to earn advanced degrees to work in school administration, research positions, or academia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><br>Fun Fact: Our graduates are sought after by school principals as they are recognized as well-prepared to teach in today\u2019s complex school environments. Principals report that IEC graduates are skilled in many areas including relationship development, problem solving, collegiality, curriculum development and delivery, and much more. In fact, many of our students have job offers before they finish their internship year!<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-accordion-toggle-accordion-item eb-accordion-item-tlpwq eb-accordion-wrapper\" data-clickable=\"false\"><div class=\"eb-accordion-title-wrapper eb-accordion-title-wrapper-eb-accordion-rf49p\"><span class=\"eb-accordion-icon-wrapper eb-accordion-icon-wrapper-eb-accordion-rf49p\"><span class=\"fas fa-angle-right eb-accordion-icon\"><\/span><\/span><div class=\"eb-accordion-title-content-wrap title-content-eb-accordion-rf49p\"><h3 class=\"eb-accordion-title\"><strong>Will I get to work directly with children while I\u2019m in the program?<\/strong><\/h3><\/div><\/div><div class=\"eb-accordion-content-wrapper eb-accordion-content-wrapper-eb-accordion-rf49p\"><div class=\"eb-accordion-content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes! There are many courses throughout the IEC PreK-3rd grade program that have hands-on learning components in a variety of school settings. We even have our own early childhood education program on campus that serves as the learning laboratory for IEC students, the <a href=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/elc\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Early Learning Center for Research and Practice<\/a>! Check out <a href=\"https:\/\/www.canva.com\/design\/DAFbnrWUhl0\/da9FyQ6o_-pkpf4lmETu0A\/view?utm_content=DAFbnrWUhl0&amp;utm_campaign=designshare&amp;utm_medium=link2&amp;utm_source=uniquelinks&amp;utlId=h4d56b0a15d\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">this graphic<\/a> for more information about field experiences you can expect in the IEC program.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-accordion-toggle-accordion-item eb-accordion-item-8tlop eb-accordion-wrapper\" data-clickable=\"false\"><div class=\"eb-accordion-title-wrapper eb-accordion-title-wrapper-eb-accordion-rf49p\"><span class=\"eb-accordion-icon-wrapper eb-accordion-icon-wrapper-eb-accordion-rf49p\"><span class=\"fas fa-angle-right eb-accordion-icon\"><\/span><\/span><div class=\"eb-accordion-title-content-wrap title-content-eb-accordion-rf49p\"><h3 class=\"eb-accordion-title\"><strong>Do you offer a licensure pathway that does not include a master\u2019s degree or the 5th year?\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3><\/div><\/div><div class=\"eb-accordion-content-wrapper eb-accordion-content-wrapper-eb-accordion-rf49p\"><div class=\"eb-accordion-content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Coming soon! We are currently working on multiple additional pathways to licensure and graduate degrees in IEC. Those pathways include a job embedded option (work and get paid while you complete licensure requirements) and distance education (online) programs.<br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While these programs are not live <em>yet<\/em>, you can reach out to Samara Madrid Akpovo at <a href=\"mailto:smadrid1@utk.edu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">smadrid1@utk.edu<\/a> for more information and to express interest in our growing program.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Coming Soon<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Early Care and Education (Non-Licensure) and Job-Embedded Practitioner Distance Education pathways for PreK-Kindergarten and PreK-3rd Grade licensure programs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"fancyLink wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"mailto:smadrid1@utk.edu\">Email for More Information<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull bg-para-q_sc is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-cover alignfull has-parallax bg-para__pic\"><div role=\"img\" aria-label=\"Preschool teacher with preschool children in classroom raising hands\" class=\"wp-block-cover__image-background wp-image-26210 size-large has-parallax\" style=\"background-position:50% 50%;background-image:url(https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2026\/06\/TPTE-New-Website-IEC-Program-Area-Middle-Page-Photo-2000x851px-1024x436.jpg)\"><\/div><span aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-cover__background has-background-dim-0 has-background-dim\" style=\"background-color:#937665\"><\/span><div class=\"wp-block-cover__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-cover-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns bg-para__rw is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column bg-para__cl cl-lf has-white-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"has-smokey-color has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Shaping strong beginnings through inclusive, research-informed practic<\/em>e.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"faculty\">Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Faculty<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group profileCardContainer is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group profileCard is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group profileHeadshot is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"1000\" src=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Adkins_Jessica.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-24410\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Adkins_Jessica.webp 800w, https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Adkins_Jessica-240x300.webp 240w, https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Adkins_Jessica-768x960.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group profileInfo is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading profileName\">Jessica Adkins<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"profileTitle wp-block-paragraph\">Program Coordinator<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"fancyLink wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"mailto:adkinsj3@utk.edu\">Email<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"fancyLink wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/people\/jessica-adkins\/\">Profile<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group profileCard is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group profileHeadshot is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Akpovo_Samara.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-24419\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group profileInfo is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading profileName\">Samara Madrid Akpovo<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"profileTitle wp-block-paragraph\">Associate Professor<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"fancyLink wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"mailto:smadrid1@utk.edu\">Email<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"fancyLink wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/people\/samara-akpovo\/\">Profile<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group profileCard is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group profileHeadshot is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"1000\" src=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Brookshire_Robyn.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-24427\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Brookshire_Robyn.webp 800w, https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Brookshire_Robyn-240x300.webp 240w, https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Brookshire_Robyn-768x960.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group profileInfo is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading profileName\">Robyn Brookshire<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"profileTitle wp-block-paragraph\">Clinical Assistant Professor<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"fancyLink wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"mailto:rbrooks8@utk.edu\">Email<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"fancyLink wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/people\/robyn-brookshire\/\" data-type=\"people\" data-id=\"24426\">Profile<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group profileCard is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group profileHeadshot is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"1000\" src=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Caudle_Lori.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-24429\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Caudle_Lori.webp 800w, https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Caudle_Lori-240x300.webp 240w, https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Caudle_Lori-768x960.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group profileInfo is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading profileName\">Lori Caudle<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"profileTitle wp-block-paragraph\">Assistant Professor<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"fancyLink wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"mailto:lcaudle@utk.edu\">Email<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"fancyLink wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/people\/lori-caudle\/\">Profile<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group profileCard is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group profileHeadshot is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"1000\" src=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Hobbs_Melody.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-24433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Hobbs_Melody.webp 800w, https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Hobbs_Melody-240x300.webp 240w, https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Hobbs_Melody-768x960.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group profileInfo is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading profileName\">Melody Hobbs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"profileTitle wp-block-paragraph\">Clinical Assistant Professor<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"fancyLink wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"mailto:mhobbs@utk.edu\">Email<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"fancyLink wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/people\/melody-hobbs\/\">Profile<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group profileCard is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group profileHeadshot is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"1000\" src=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Kidd_Kat.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-24435\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Kidd_Kat.webp 800w, https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Kidd_Kat-240x300.webp 240w, https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Kidd_Kat-768x960.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group profileInfo is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading profileName\">Kathy Kidd<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"profileTitle wp-block-paragraph\">Associate Director, <a href=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/elc\/\">The Early Learning Center for Research and Practice<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"fancyLink wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"mailto:kkidd@utk.edu\">Email<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"fancyLink wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/people\/kathy-kidd\/\">Profile<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group profileCard is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group profileHeadshot is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"1000\" src=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Newton_Elizabeth.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-24445\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Newton_Elizabeth.webp 800w, https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Newton_Elizabeth-240x300.webp 240w, https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Newton_Elizabeth-768x960.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group profileInfo is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading profileName\">Elizabeth DeMartino Newton<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"profileTitle wp-block-paragraph\">Director, <a href=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/elc\/\">The Early Learning Center for Research and Practice<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"fancyLink wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"mailto:edemarti@utk.edu\">Email<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"fancyLink wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/people\/elizabeth-demartino-newton\/\">Profile<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group profileCard is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group profileHeadshot is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"1000\" src=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Roberts_Melanie.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-24496\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Roberts_Melanie.webp 800w, https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Roberts_Melanie-240x300.webp 240w, https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Roberts_Melanie-768x960.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group profileInfo is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading profileName\">Melanie Roberts<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"profileTitle wp-block-paragraph\">Program Coordinator<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"fancyLink wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"mailto:mrobe135@utk.edu\">Email<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"fancyLink wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/people\/melanie-roberts\/\">Profile<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group profileCard is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group profileHeadshot is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"1000\" src=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Stott_Anne-Miller.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-24502\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Stott_Anne-Miller.webp 800w, https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Stott_Anne-Miller-240x300.webp 240w, https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Stott_Anne-Miller-768x960.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group profileInfo is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading profileName\">Anne Miller Stott<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"profileTitle wp-block-paragraph\">Program Coordinator<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"fancyLink wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"mailto:astott@utk.edu\">Email<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"fancyLink wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/people\/anne-miller-stott\/\">Profile<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group profileCard is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group profileHeadshot is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"1000\" src=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Thibus_Dani-Rose.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-24506\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Thibus_Dani-Rose.webp 800w, https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Thibus_Dani-Rose-240x300.webp 240w, https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Thibus_Dani-Rose-768x960.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group profileInfo is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading profileName\">Dani Rose Thibus<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"profileTitle wp-block-paragraph\">Assistant Director, <a href=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/elc\/\">The Early Learning Center for Research and Practice<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"fancyLink wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"mailto:drose@utk.edu\">Email<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"fancyLink wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/people\/dani-rose-thibus\/\">Profile<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Affiliate Faculty<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group profileCardContainer is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group profileCard is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group profileHeadshot is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"1000\" src=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Ai_Jun.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-24417\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Ai_Jun.webp 800w, https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Ai_Jun-240x300.webp 240w, https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/02\/Ai_Jun-768x960.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group profileInfo is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading profileName\">Jun Ai<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"profileTitle wp-block-paragraph\">Assistant Professor<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"fancyLink wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"mailto:jai1@utk.edu\">Email<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"fancyLink wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/people\/jun-ai\/\" data-type=\"people\" data-id=\"24416\">Profile<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"work\">Sharing Recent Work From Faculty and Students<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Contemporary Issues in Early Childhood<\/strong><br>Sorrells, C., &amp; Akpovo, S. M. (2024). Agonist relationships in the toddler classroom: Exploring the connection between conflict and care. <em>Contemporary Issues in Early Childhood, 0<\/em>(0). <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1177\/14639491241229227\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1177\/14639491241229227<\/a>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Peabody Journal of Education<\/strong><br>Caudle, L. A., Quinn, M. F., Harper, F. K., Thompson, H., Rainwater, T., Flowers, C., &amp; The CRRAFT Partnership (2024). \u201cAny other thoughts?\u201d: Establishing third space in a family-school-university STEM partnership to center voices of parents and teachers. <em>Peabody Journal of Education<\/em>, <em>99<\/em>(3), 274\u2013294. <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1080\/0161956X.2024.2357010\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1080\/0161956X.2024.2357010<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Knoxville Head Start<\/strong><br>Hobbs, M. (2024). <em>The power of our words<\/em>. Presentation at Knoxville Head Start.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Journal of Behavioral Education<\/strong><br>Ai, J., Zhao, M., Behrens, S., &amp; Horn, E. M. (2024). Professional development improves teachers&#8217; embedded instruction and children&#8217;s outcomes in a Chinese inclusive preschool. <em>Journal of Behavioral Education. <\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1007\/s10864-022-09490-5\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1007\/s10864-022-09490-5<\/a>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Early Childhood Education Journal<\/strong><br>Gallo-Fox, J., Miller Marsh, M., Paris, C., Barbour, N., Brookshire, R, Fisher, M., Hutchins, P, McBride, B., DeMartino Newton, E., Olalowo, I., Radnai-Griffin, D., Schlesinger-Devin, E. (in press). Look to laboratory schools for innovation and leadership. <em>Early Childhood Education Journal.&nbsp;<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>American Educational Research Association<\/strong><br>Madrid Akpovo, S., Nganga, L., Kambutu, J., &amp; Thapa, S. (2024, April). <em>Intellectual imperialism and globalization: The commodified and commercialized early childhood policies and practices in Nepal and Kenya.<\/em> The 2024 American Educational Research Association Annual Meeting, Philadelphia, PA.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>INTERDISCIPLINARY Early Childhood Interdisciplinary Early Childhood program pathways are perfect for individuals who are passionate about working with young children in a variety of contexts. With multiple pathways and degree options for undergraduate students, students with associate degrees, graduate students, and those already working in the early childhood field, IEC programs are responsive and dynamic [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":159,"featured_media":0,"parent":24941,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"_eb_attr":"","_genesis_hide_title":true,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":true,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"","footnotes":"","_links_to":"","_links_to_target":""},"class_list":["post-25294","page","type-page","status-publish","entry"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.1 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Interdisciplinary Early Childhood - Theory &amp; Practice in Teacher Education<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/about-tpte\/interdisciplinary-learning-and-teaching-ilt-in-early-childhood-design-and-technology-and-stem-unit\/interdisciplinary-early-childhood\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Interdisciplinary Early Childhood - Theory &amp; Practice in Teacher Education\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"INTERDISCIPLINARY Early Childhood Interdisciplinary Early Childhood program pathways are perfect for individuals who are passionate about working with young children in a variety of contexts. With multiple pathways and degree options for undergraduate students, students with associate degrees, graduate students, and those already working in the early childhood field, IEC programs are responsive and dynamic [&hellip;]\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/about-tpte\/interdisciplinary-learning-and-teaching-ilt-in-early-childhood-design-and-technology-and-stem-unit\/interdisciplinary-early-childhood\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Theory &amp; Practice in Teacher Education\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-06-25T14:58:16+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/07\/elc9-copy-scaled.webp\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"2560\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1072\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/webp\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"10 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cehhs.utk.edu\\\/tpte\\\/about-tpte\\\/interdisciplinary-learning-and-teaching-ilt-in-early-childhood-design-and-technology-and-stem-unit\\\/interdisciplinary-early-childhood\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cehhs.utk.edu\\\/tpte\\\/about-tpte\\\/interdisciplinary-learning-and-teaching-ilt-in-early-childhood-design-and-technology-and-stem-unit\\\/interdisciplinary-early-childhood\\\/\",\"name\":\"Interdisciplinary Early Childhood - Theory &amp; Practice in Teacher Education\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cehhs.utk.edu\\\/tpte\\\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cehhs.utk.edu\\\/tpte\\\/about-tpte\\\/interdisciplinary-learning-and-teaching-ilt-in-early-childhood-design-and-technology-and-stem-unit\\\/interdisciplinary-early-childhood\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cehhs.utk.edu\\\/tpte\\\/about-tpte\\\/interdisciplinary-learning-and-teaching-ilt-in-early-childhood-design-and-technology-and-stem-unit\\\/interdisciplinary-early-childhood\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cehhs.utk.edu\\\/tpte\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/26\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/elc9-copy-scaled.webp\",\"datePublished\":\"2025-07-20T20:33:47+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-06-25T14:58:16+00:00\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cehhs.utk.edu\\\/tpte\\\/about-tpte\\\/interdisciplinary-learning-and-teaching-ilt-in-early-childhood-design-and-technology-and-stem-unit\\\/interdisciplinary-early-childhood\\\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/cehhs.utk.edu\\\/tpte\\\/about-tpte\\\/interdisciplinary-learning-and-teaching-ilt-in-early-childhood-design-and-technology-and-stem-unit\\\/interdisciplinary-early-childhood\\\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cehhs.utk.edu\\\/tpte\\\/about-tpte\\\/interdisciplinary-learning-and-teaching-ilt-in-early-childhood-design-and-technology-and-stem-unit\\\/interdisciplinary-early-childhood\\\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cehhs.utk.edu\\\/tpte\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/26\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/elc9-copy-scaled.webp\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cehhs.utk.edu\\\/tpte\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/26\\\/2025\\\/07\\\/elc9-copy-scaled.webp\",\"width\":2560,\"height\":1072,\"caption\":\"students at the University of Tennessee Early Learning Center in Knoxville playing outside\"},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cehhs.utk.edu\\\/tpte\\\/about-tpte\\\/interdisciplinary-learning-and-teaching-ilt-in-early-childhood-design-and-technology-and-stem-unit\\\/interdisciplinary-early-childhood\\\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cehhs.utk.edu\\\/tpte\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"About TPTE\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cehhs.utk.edu\\\/tpte\\\/about-tpte\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":3,\"name\":\"Interdisciplinary Learning and Teaching (ILT) in Early Childhood, Design and Technology, and STEM Unit\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cehhs.utk.edu\\\/tpte\\\/about-tpte\\\/interdisciplinary-learning-and-teaching-ilt-in-early-childhood-design-and-technology-and-stem-unit\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":4,\"name\":\"Interdisciplinary Early Childhood\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cehhs.utk.edu\\\/tpte\\\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cehhs.utk.edu\\\/tpte\\\/\",\"name\":\"Theory &amp; Practice in Teacher Education\",\"description\":\"The University of Tennessee, Knoxville\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cehhs.utk.edu\\\/tpte\\\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"Interdisciplinary Early Childhood - Theory &amp; Practice in Teacher Education","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/about-tpte\/interdisciplinary-learning-and-teaching-ilt-in-early-childhood-design-and-technology-and-stem-unit\/interdisciplinary-early-childhood\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"Interdisciplinary Early Childhood - Theory &amp; Practice in Teacher Education","og_description":"INTERDISCIPLINARY Early Childhood Interdisciplinary Early Childhood program pathways are perfect for individuals who are passionate about working with young children in a variety of contexts. With multiple pathways and degree options for undergraduate students, students with associate degrees, graduate students, and those already working in the early childhood field, IEC programs are responsive and dynamic [&hellip;]","og_url":"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/about-tpte\/interdisciplinary-learning-and-teaching-ilt-in-early-childhood-design-and-technology-and-stem-unit\/interdisciplinary-early-childhood\/","og_site_name":"Theory &amp; Practice in Teacher Education","article_modified_time":"2026-06-25T14:58:16+00:00","og_image":[{"width":2560,"height":1072,"url":"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/07\/elc9-copy-scaled.webp","type":"image\/webp"}],"twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_misc":{"Est. reading time":"10 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/about-tpte\/interdisciplinary-learning-and-teaching-ilt-in-early-childhood-design-and-technology-and-stem-unit\/interdisciplinary-early-childhood\/","url":"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/about-tpte\/interdisciplinary-learning-and-teaching-ilt-in-early-childhood-design-and-technology-and-stem-unit\/interdisciplinary-early-childhood\/","name":"Interdisciplinary Early Childhood - Theory &amp; Practice in Teacher Education","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/about-tpte\/interdisciplinary-learning-and-teaching-ilt-in-early-childhood-design-and-technology-and-stem-unit\/interdisciplinary-early-childhood\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/about-tpte\/interdisciplinary-learning-and-teaching-ilt-in-early-childhood-design-and-technology-and-stem-unit\/interdisciplinary-early-childhood\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/07\/elc9-copy-scaled.webp","datePublished":"2025-07-20T20:33:47+00:00","dateModified":"2026-06-25T14:58:16+00:00","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/about-tpte\/interdisciplinary-learning-and-teaching-ilt-in-early-childhood-design-and-technology-and-stem-unit\/interdisciplinary-early-childhood\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/about-tpte\/interdisciplinary-learning-and-teaching-ilt-in-early-childhood-design-and-technology-and-stem-unit\/interdisciplinary-early-childhood\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/about-tpte\/interdisciplinary-learning-and-teaching-ilt-in-early-childhood-design-and-technology-and-stem-unit\/interdisciplinary-early-childhood\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/07\/elc9-copy-scaled.webp","contentUrl":"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/26\/2025\/07\/elc9-copy-scaled.webp","width":2560,"height":1072,"caption":"students at the University of Tennessee Early Learning Center in Knoxville playing outside"},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/about-tpte\/interdisciplinary-learning-and-teaching-ilt-in-early-childhood-design-and-technology-and-stem-unit\/interdisciplinary-early-childhood\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"About TPTE","item":"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/about-tpte\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"name":"Interdisciplinary Learning and Teaching (ILT) in Early Childhood, Design and Technology, and STEM Unit","item":"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/about-tpte\/interdisciplinary-learning-and-teaching-ilt-in-early-childhood-design-and-technology-and-stem-unit\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":4,"name":"Interdisciplinary Early Childhood"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/#website","url":"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/","name":"Theory &amp; Practice in Teacher Education","description":"The University of Tennessee, Knoxville","potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"}]}},"featured_image_src":null,"featured_image_src_square":null,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/25294","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/159"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=25294"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/25294\/revisions"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/24941"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/cehhs.utk.edu\/tpte\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=25294"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}