Preschool Learning Lab
Program Description
The Josey Stearns Preschool Laboratory provides Cal Poly students with opportunities to apply their knowledge of child development as they interact with children and families. In doing so, the lab supports the university's “Learn by Doing” approach to education. Each day, students prepare the setting to include a variety of developmentally appropriate activities, providing a rich play-based environment from which children can choose how they will spend their time. The ratio of children to teachers is low, facilitating close communication with families, and planning for the needs and interests of individual children. Students' efforts in these areas are guided by a supervising faculty member who assists students in using research and theory in child development to inform their interactions with children and families.
In addition to serving as a site for hands-on experience working with children, the Preschool Lab facilitates faculty and student research on children's learning and development. For example, visitors to the Preschool Lab can unobtrusively observe young children's activities through special one-way mirrors that span the classroom. Students enrolled in a variety of classes at Cal Poly have benefited from the opportunity to observe children in this manner.
News and Events
Playground Renovation
Generous donations have been made by two Cal Poly alumnae to support the redesign and construction of the existing outdoor areas to better address children's developmental needs. Central to this redesign project is an effort to infuse the outdoor play areas with opportunities for activities that will support children's inborn sense of wonder about the world around them. We thank Fran Durekas and an anonymous donor for their support of this playground renovation. Expect to see construction beginning Fall 2008 and running through Winter Quarter.
Those interested in contributing further to the playground renovation project are encouraged to contact Dr. Jennifer Jipson (jjipson@calpoly.edu, 805-756-2611). In particular, we encourage individuals to consider sponsoring such elements as a Worm Bin, a Solar Panel Station, a Waterwheel, and a Greenhouse. Your generosity will help us in our efforts to support the sense of wonder, excitement, and joy that children experience as they seek to make sense of the world.
Location
The Preschool Learning Lab is housed at the center of the Cal Poly campus in Building 38 (Math & Sciences), Room 125.
Current Schedule
The Preschool Learning Lab program for 2008-09 is available on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 9:30 – noon during Fall, Winter and Spring Quarters. We are currently unable to offer the program during Summer Quarter, finals week, academic holidays, and quarter breaks.
Application Process
Who is eligible?
We invite families of children who are 2 to 4 years of age by October 1st to apply to the Preschool Lab. There is currently no requirement that families be associated with Cal Poly. Children are selected to provide a balance of sexes, ages and ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds. Special priority is given to children with special needs. Within these constraints, slots are filled based on date of application. We are most appreciative and attentive to each of the families who enroll.
How much is the tuition?
The cost of enrolling a child in the Preschool Learning Lab is $300 per quarter.
How can I apply?
Interested families are encouraged to fill out an application (pdf) and return it to:
The Psychology and Child Development Department
ATTN: Preschool Lab
California Polytechnic State University
San Luis Obispo, CA 93407-0387
Contact Information
Further information about the Preschool Lab can be obtained by calling (805) 756-2220.