exam review
ECE224 – Midterm Exam Study Guide
1. Professionalism and the RECE
What is Professionalism?
Professionalism refers to the attitudes, values, behaviors, and standards expected of Registered Early Childhood Educators (RECEs).
Key aspects of professionalism:
Accountability
Ethical behavior
Ongoing professional learning
Respectful communication
Reflective practice
Following laws, regulations, and standards
Acting in the best interests of children and families
👉 Exam tip: Be ready to define professionalism and give examples.
Role of the CECE in Creating ECE as a Profession
The College of Early Childhood Educators (CECE):
Regulates RECEs in Ontario
Protects the public
Sets standards for practice and conduct
Ensures accountability
How the CECE professionalized ECE:
Registration requirement (RECE title)
Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice
Complaints and discipline process
Mandatory Continuous Professional Learning (CPL)
👉 Likely question: Why is the CECE important? or How does it protect the public?
2. Stages of the Educator
Stages of Educator Development
While wording may vary, stages usually include:
Beginning / Novice Educator
Learning rules, routines, and expectations
Relies heavily on guidance
Developing / Competent Educator
Growing confidence
Reflects on practice
Proficient / Experienced Educator
Uses professional judgment
Adapts practice to children’s needs
Mentor / Leader
Supports others
Models professionalism
👉 Exam tip: Know that growth is ongoing, not fixed.
Professional Learning and Growth
Required for RECEs
Includes workshops, courses, reflection, mentorship
Part of CECE’s Continuous Professional Learning (CPL)
Why it matters:
Improves practice
Keeps educators current
Benefits children and families
Strengthens the profession
Mentorship and Professionalism
Mentorship:
Supports new educators
Encourages reflective practice
Builds confidence and competence
Models ethical and professional behavior
👉 Possible short answer: How does mentorship support professionalism?
3. Philosophy Statements
What is a Philosophy Statement?
A personal statement that explains:
Your beliefs about children
How children learn
Your role as an educator
Values guiding your practice
What is Included in a Philosophy Statement?
View of children (competent, capable, curious)
Learning environment beliefs
Role of play
Relationships with families
Inclusion and respect
Professional values
👉 Exam tip: You may be asked what it is, why it’s important, or what it includes.
4. Professional Ethics of a RECE
Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice
These guide RECE behavior and decision-making.
Code of Ethics values:
Care
Respect
Trust
Integrity
Standards of Practice:
Caring and Responsive Relationships
Curriculum and Pedagogy
Safety, Health, and Well-Being
Professionalism and Leadership
👉 Likely MC question: Match an example to the correct standard.
Ethical Decision-Making
Ethical decision-making means:
Making choices that align with ethical values
Acting in the best interest of children
Following professional standards
Professional Judgment
Professional judgment is:
Using knowledge, experience, ethics, and standards
Making informed decisions when rules aren’t clear
Why it’s important:
Every situation is different
Supports ethical, child-centered practice
Protects children, families, and educators
Steps in Ethical Decision-Making
Common steps include:
Identify the ethical issue
Gather information
Refer to Code of Ethics & Standards
Consider possible actions
Reflect on consequences
Make a decision
Reflect afterward
👉 Very exam-friendly: Know these steps in order.